by Robyn | Jan 22, 2018 | Financial Literacy, Helping Mom & Dad, insurance, Insurance Benefits
At long last, Medicare is removing Social Security numbers from all Medicare cards. For any years the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which administers the Medicare health insurance program, resisted pressure to make this change. In 2015, however,...
by Robyn | Jan 8, 2018 | Financial Literacy, Helping Mom & Dad
If you were unexpectedly incapacitated, would your loved ones know which of your bills to pay? Would they know how to contact your accountant or insurance agent, or even know who they are? Would they be able to give your health insurance information to your medical...
by Robyn | Aug 22, 2017 | Budgeting, Helping Mom & Dad, Housing
Many elders desire to stay in their current homes. Seniors who choose to “age in place” can modify their homes to make them safer and accessible and hire home care services. Aging in place may not be desirable or feasible for everyone, however. Today, there are...
by Robyn | May 16, 2017 | Helping Mom & Dad
Trying to help parents with their finances can be frustrating. We may see clearly what we think our parents should do, yet they may refuse. When it comes to parents and their money, adult children need to tread lightly. Parents may resent their children’s...
by Robyn | Apr 11, 2017 | Financial Literacy, General, Helping Mom & Dad
This is a tale of two agents by power of attorney. Our legal and financial advisors tell us we need a durable power of attorney for finances. With this legal document we name an “agent” who will manage our finances should we not be able to ourselves. Some people name...
by Robyn | Feb 28, 2017 | Budgeting, Helping Mom & Dad, Social Security
When you are managing the finances for a parent who receives Social Security benefits, you may need to become her “Representative Payee.” Social Security does not recognize guardianships, conservatorships or powers of attorneys. If you handle your family member’s...
