Author Archives: Rick Messemer

Cost of Skilled Nursing and What to do?

Why even discuss skilled nursing? There are some statistics that everyone needs to know. 1. At least 70% of people 65 years old and older will need some type of long term care in their lives.  Many will require Long Term Skilled Nursing … Continue reading

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TRUST ADMINISTRATION CHECKLIST

You are the Trustee? Many Trusts are set up in a way that the Trustee can “Administer” the trust without additional professional assistance.   In those cases, here is a sample “checklist” of those tasks that need to be completed: Obtain … Continue reading

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“Probate and Responsibilities of Estate Administrators in North Carolina”

Overview of Probate / Estate Administration Typically, there are certain “standard” responsibilities an executor will need to go through, depending on the size, location and number of beneficiaries, this task can be rather simple, or extremely complex. One question the … Continue reading

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WHAT IF I’M THE EXECUTOR or EXECUTRIX? What is PROBATE?

Probating a will is the responsibility of the executor or Executrix of an estate. The person creating a WILL designates an executor  to ensure that the probate process runs smoothly. When you take office as the executor of an estate in North Carolina, … Continue reading

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When you die without a will

In North Carolina, there are very specific laws about how property is to be distributed if a person dies without a will.  It is our belief, that everyone should have a will, even if you have some form of advanced … Continue reading

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Your estate plan must include directions about your minor children

Nothing ever happens to us when we are young…….. right? But what if it does?   It is very important to discuss what will happen to your minor children (especially in single parent households) if you were to pass away or … Continue reading

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An “Estate Plan”………. I don’t need one!

So many people ask themselves –   “do I really need an estate plan?” The easiest way to answer this question is with several more questions: If I die without a will, what happens to my home, my money and how … Continue reading

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Review your Wills, Powers of Attorney, Insurance policies today!

Situations change, families move, loved ones pass away, children are getting divorced, a grandchild is born with a disability. Your legal and insurance documents are instructions to those handling your final wishes, but it your responsibility to make sure they reflect … Continue reading

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Having “that talk”

Having “that talk” is often a very difficult one to start.   First……….. who starts the conversation?  The parents? The Children?  Maybe it is a trusted advisor or attorney.   Here are some possible “starter” discussions:  Is there an acknowledgement that a … Continue reading

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VA Increases Aid and Attendance Benefits

The Veteran’s Administration has announced an increase in the monthly benefits for the VA Improved Pension, Aid and Attendance benefit.  The four (4) basic qualifiers for this benefit are: Served in the military during a period of war (didn’t have … Continue reading

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