A big document deserves big litigation. Your durable power of attorney is a big document. That is the paper you signed, as principal, naming someone to be your agent to handle financial matters on your behalf. The powers you give your agent are spelled out in the document. Most agents are given extensive powers – everything from selling your land to making investment decisions. Some are given “hot powers” that include...

Does a trust beneficiary own the assets in his trust? You may be surprised to find out that he does not. There are actually various types of ownership, or “title,” to property, and trusts have at least two.  Types of Property Ownership Beneficial or Equitable Title  “Beneficial title” or “equitable title,” also called a “beneficial interest” or “equitable interest,” carries with it the right of use or enjoyment of the property. A beneficiary...

My goal today: give an overview of Medicare for the 65+ crowd in 550 words or less. Ready? What is Medicare? Medicare is a federal entitlement program. The government guarantees that eligible individuals will receive benefits. There are several triggers for eligibility, but this column will focus on only age eligibility. Under that criterion, you must be 65 years old, have worked at least 40 quarters of covered employment, and be either a...