Elder Law & Estate Planning News
Medicare Coverage for Telehealth Services in 2025 and Beyond
The future of Medicare-reimbursed telehealth services will largely be shaped by ongoing legislative efforts. Congress has introduced several bills aimed at extending many of the temporary telehealth expansions or making them permanent.
The Older Americans Act Is Up for Renewal: Why That Matters
The Older Americans Act seeks to promote the well-being, dignity, and independence of older Americans. By providing billions of dollars in funding for essential services, the OAA helps seniors live in their homes and communities for as long as possible.
Entering and Leaving Medicare Advantage Plans
You generally must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and Part B before you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. To join a Medicare Advantage plan, contact the plan and ask if it is accepting new member enrollments or if it has a waiting list.
Medicare Open Enrollment – and New Benefits – Are on the Way
Medicare open enrollment is on the horizon. Start thinking about changes you may want to make to your coverage. Some significant changes have come along for Medicare, with more taking effect in the near future.
Does Medicare Cover Hearing Aids?
Hearing loss is common in older adults, but many still don’t wear hearing aids. In addition to helping people to hear better, hearing aids have been demonstrated to have a positive impact on physical and mental health.
2024 Election: Harris, Trump on Social Security and Medicare
Keeping track and making sense of government policies and presidential candidates’ promises can be daunting during any election year. This year is no exception.
Voting Rights for People With Cognitive Impairment
A fundamental aspect of a representative democracy is the right to vote, shared by all eligible citizens, whether or not they have full cognitive abilities.
my Social Security Transitions to Login.gov
On July 12, 2024, the SSA announced a change affecting many account users. Those who created a my Social Security account before September 18, 2021, must transition to a different type of online account known as a Login.gov.
What You Should Know About the Medicare Tax
Medicare tax is an essential component of the United States tax system. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the solvency and functionality of the Medicare program.
The Loneliness Epidemic: Helping Seniors Stay Connected
Failing to maintain and make new meaningful connections as older adults age can lead them toward a deep sense of loneliness. This can affect their mental and physical health, including increased risk of heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia.
License Renewals: What Are the New Rules for Senior Drivers?
Older drivers are among the safest of all drivers, a AAA report showed. Nonetheless, state senior driving laws vary widely across the country.
Proposed Medicare Bill to Help Seniors With Medical Costs
In the ever-evolving landscape of health care, one critical challenge has been ensuring that Medicare recipients receive the coverage they need without undue financial burdens.
New Rental Assistance Rule May Open Benefits to More Seniors
Effective September 30, 2024, a new Social Security Administration rule is likely to allow more elders to qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Some current SSI recipients may see an increase in their monthly benefit amount.
Feds Simplify and Clarify Various Medicaid Rules for States
Thanks to a new rule recently finalized by the federal government, obtaining and renewing health care coverage under the Medicaid program is set to become easier for millions of Americans.
Promissory Notes and Medicaid Planning
A promissory note is normally given in return for a loan. Classifying transfers as loans rather than gifts can be useful because it sometimes allows parents to “lend” assets to their children and still maintain Medicaid eligibility.