Estate Planning Blog
Legal insights, planning strategies, and important updates for New York families from the Law Offices of Vlad Portnoy, P.C.
August Is Make a Will Month: What New Yorkers Should Know
August is Make a Will Month. Learn why it exists, how to prepare for estate planning, and what New York requires for a will…
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Can Family Override Your Wishes Without a Health Care Proxy in NYC?
Learn how to create a living will or health care proxy in New York and why family members can't automatically decide your medical care…
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How to Write a Will That Won’t Get Contested in New York
Learn how to write a will that holds up in New York's Surrogate's Court, plus the top reasons wills get contested and how to…
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Blended Families in Manhattan: Estate Planning Mistakes That Disinherit Stepchildren
Learn what is an estate and how New York law can accidentally disinherit stepchildren in blended families. Avoid these common Manhattan planning mistakes.
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How Much Do Elder Law Attorneys Charge? Fees Explained
Wondering how much do elder law attorneys charge? Learn typical fee structures, what drives costs, and how elder law differs from estate planning.
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What Is Guardianship? When New York Courts Require One
Learn what is guardianship, when New York courts require it, how to petition, and alternatives like power of attorney that can help avoid court…
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How the Federal Estate Tax Exemption Affects High Net Worth Families in NYC
Learn how the federal estate tax exemption impacts NYC families and how to reduce income tax through trusts, gifting, and smart estate tax planning.
Read More →How Medicaid Asset Protection Planning Works and When to Start
Learn how Medicaid asset protection planning works, the five-year look-back rule, and when to start protecting your home and savings from care costs.
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What Is a POA? Durable vs Springing Power of Attorney Explained
Wondering what is a POA and which type fits your needs? Compare durable and springing power of attorney to protect your finances and family…
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Who Handles Estate Administration in NYC and What Are Their Duties
What is a decedent, and who administers their estate in NYC? Learn how executors and administrators are chosen and their legal duties under New…
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What to Expect During the NYC Probate Process Step by Step
Wondering what is probate and how it works in NYC? Follow this step-by-step guide to Surrogate's Court, timelines, executor duties, and avoiding delays.
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What Is a Special Needs Trust? How It Protects Disability Benefits
What is a special needs trust and how does it protect SSI and Medicaid benefits? Learn how these trusts work, what they cover, and…
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