Skip to content

Survey Highlights Inheritance Expectation Gap

Takeaways

There’s a notable “inheritance expectation gap” between older adults’ plans to leave inheritances and younger adults’ expectations of receiving them, as revealed by a recent LegalZoom survey.
Older generations generally plan to leave more in terms of value and variety of…

Annual Gift Tax and Estate Tax Exemptions for 2026

Takeaways

The federal estate tax exemption for 2026 will increase to $15 million per individual, with married couples exempt up to $30 million.
The annual gift tax exclusion will remain at $19,000 per individual for 2026, with a lifetime gift and estate…

How Medicare Changes in 2026 Will Affect Older Adults

Takeaways

Medicare is implementing changes in 2026 to lower prescription drug costs, enhance consumer protections, and test new care management approaches.
New negotiated prices for some prescription drugs and an annual out-of-pocket cap of $2,100 for Part D covered medications will lead…

How to Prevent Long-Term Care Insurance Claim Denials

Takeaways

Understanding your long-term care insurance policy and its specific requirements (benefit triggers, covered services, elimination periods) is crucial to preventing claim denials.
Common reasons for claims denials include insufficient medical documentation, preexisting condition exclusions, failure to meet elimination period requirements, and…

How the Government Shutdown Could Affect Older Adults

Takeaways

Many older adults rely on federal programs for income, health care, and support services, making them particularly vulnerable to disruptions caused by a government shutdown.
While core benefits such as Social Security and Medicare payments are largely protected, administrative functions, customer…

Emotional Wellness Among Older Adults in Long-Term Care

Takeaways

Emotional wellness is critical, but often overlooked, for older adults in long-term care.
Approaches that do not involve medications (e.g., gardening, reminiscence therapy, social activities, and technology) show promise in improving emotional well-being.
Families can also play a vital role in supporting…

2.8 Percent COLA Increase for 2026 Social Security Benefits

Takeaways

Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8 percent in 2026 due to the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
This increase applies to Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, with payments starting in January 2026 for Social Security and December 31,…

Back To Top