The Karp Law Firm

10/21/2026

An inheritance should help someone you love. But without careful planning, it could put benefits they rely on at risk.

For day 16 of my countdown to the New York City Marathon, I’m talking about planning for a loved one with a disability who receives benefits such as SSI or Medicaid.

Leaving money directly to them could affect their eligibility. A properly drafted special needs trust may help provide for their future while preserving access to those benefits.

Before naming them in your estate plan or on a beneficiary form, talk with an attorney about how to leave that support in a way that meets their needs.

16 tips down, 10 to go! 🏃‍♂️

10/20/2026

“We’ve agreed to leave everything to our own children.” In a second marriage, putting that wish in your will may not be enough.

Day 15 of 26: Estate planning for blended families.

Florida gives surviving spouses certain legal rights that can affect how assets pass, even when a will or trust says otherwise. That’s why prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can matter in estate planning, too.

If you and your spouse want your assets to go to children from previous relationships, discuss that goal with your attorney. Your agreement with each other needs the right legal planning behind it.

11 more tips before 26.2 miles through New York City! 🏃‍♂️

10/19/2026

“Will we have to sell Mom or Dad’s home to qualify for Medicaid?”

In Florida, the answer is not necessarily.

For day 14 of my countdown to the New York City Marathon, I’m covering a decision families often face when a parent needs nursing home care.

A Florida homestead may be exempt for Medicaid eligibility purposes. But keeping it means covering ongoing expenses, and selling it can turn an exempt asset into cash that affects eligibility.

Before deciding what to do with the home, talk with a Florida elder law attorney. Understanding your options first can help you avoid an expensive mistake.

14 tips down, 12 to go! 🏃‍♂️

10/18/2026

You’re planning to leave an inheritance to your child. Have you considered what could happen if they later divorce?

Day 13 of 26: Thinking beyond who inherits to how they inherit.

In Florida, an inheritance is generally considered separate property, but how it’s handled during a marriage can affect that protection. A properly structured trust may offer additional protection while allowing your child to benefit from the assets.

It’s a conversation worth having with your estate planning attorney as you consider your children’s future.

Halfway through the tips, with 13 more before 26.2 miles through New York City! 🏃‍♂️

10/17/2026

Mom’s wedding ring. Dad’s watch. The table where everyone gathered for dinner.

The things your family treasures most may have little to do with their dollar value.

For day 12 of my countdown to the New York City Marathon, I’m talking about the personal belongings that can become unexpected sources of conflict.

Two people may have very different reasons for wanting the same item. Having those conversations now and documenting your wishes where appropriate can help your family understand what you intended.

As you think through your estate plan, make room for the things with memories attached.

12 tips down, 14 to go! 🏃‍♂️

10/16/2026

“I have Medicare, so long-term care is covered.” That assumption can leave families facing a costly surprise.

Day 11 of 26: Understanding what Medicare doesn’t pay for.

Medicare may cover certain short-term skilled nursing or rehabilitation services, but it generally doesn’t cover ongoing custodial care, such as help with bathing, dressing, and eating.

Knowing that distinction gives you a chance to explore how you’d pay for care, including whether Medicaid planning may be appropriate for your situation.

Have that conversation before your family is facing an urgent decision. Save this as a reminder to start.

15 more tips before 26.2 miles through New York City! 🏃‍♂️

10/15/2026

A lot can change in 10 years. Has your estate plan kept up?

Day 10 of 26: Pull those documents out of the drawer and take another look.

Maybe your children are now adults, your family has grown, or someone you named to handle your affairs is no longer the right choice. A plan that made sense when you signed it may need another look today.

Your homework: Review your documents and discuss any changes with your estate planning attorney. Do they still reflect your wishes and the people in your life now?

10 tips down, 16 to go before 26.2 miles through New York City! 🏃‍♂️

10/15/2026

https://karplaw.com/social-security-announces-2027-cost-of-living-adjustment/

On October 14 the Social Security Administration announced that the Cost of Living Adjustment for 2027 will be 3.6%. Tied to surging inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index, next year’s COLA exceeds prior predictions. It is the largest...

10/14/2026

What feels fair to you may feel very different to your children.

For day 9 of 26, I’m talking about how estate planning decisions can affect family relationships long after you’re gone.

Leaving more to one child may come from a place of care. But without understanding your reasoning, another child may feel overlooked or resentful. Who you put in charge can bring its own challenges, too.

Talk with your estate planning attorney about your family dynamics, along with your wishes. Those relationships deserve thoughtful consideration in your plan.

17 more tips before New York City! 🏃‍♂️

10/13/2026

“I trust my child completely. Why not just add their name to my account?”

Trusting them isn’t the concern. It’s understanding what shared ownership could mean for you.

Day 8 of my 26-day countdown to the New York City Marathon covers a shortcut that can have lasting consequences. Adding a child as an owner of your home or accounts may create complications with creditors, taxes, and Medicaid planning, while affecting your control over the asset.

Before changing ownership, talk with an estate planning attorney about what you’re trying to accomplish. There may be a better way to get there.

18 more tips to go! 🏃‍♂️