Estate Planning Blog
Legal insights, planning strategies, and important updates for New York families from the Law Offices of Vlad Portnoy, P.C.
What Is a Special Needs Trust? First-Party vs Third-Party Explained
What is a special needs trust and which type fits your family? Compare first-party vs third-party trusts and how Manhattan families should plan.
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Revocable vs Irrevocable Trust: Mistakes Manhattan Families Make
Learn key revocable vs irrevocable trust differences and the mistakes Manhattan families make when setting up an irrevocable trust for asset protection.
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What Is a Living Trust? Living Trust vs. Will in Manhattan
What is a living trust and why do Manhattan residents still need a backup will? Learn how trusts and wills work together to protect…
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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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