Fresno and Oakland Social Security Disability Law Blog

Preparing an estate plan is seldom easy. It requires you to think about difficult possibilities, including the end of your own life. Many of the decisions you make can benefit your loved ones, not only by providing them with an inheritance, but also by saving them from wondering what your wishes would be. This may also prevent disputes if family members disagree about what you would want.

One important way you provide this comfort to your loved ones is by designating a power of attorney, which grants authority to someone whom you choose to make legal or medical decisions at a time when you may be unable to do so for yourself. If you should become ill or suffer injuries in an accident that leaves you unconscious or unable to communicate, who will make critical decisions on your behalf?

Over the past few years, you have undoubtedly heard of celebrities who passed away without leaving a plan for their multi-million dollar estates. Their loved ones and others spent years clamoring for a share in the wealth, and often, the legal squabbles consumed a considerable portion of the fortune. Also in recent memory are reports of celebrities left at the hands of unscrupulous caretakers because they failed to plan for their own futures despite declining health.

However, these stories are not exclusive to the rich and famous. You may not have millions, but you certainly have goals for how you would like to distribute your hard-earned assets. In fact, having fewer assets may make it even more important for you to make a plan, not just for your property, but for your own future as well.

If you recently lost a loved one, condolences are in order. Even if his or her death was not unexpected, it probably still hurts, and you will grieve in your own time. At some point, whether you are ready or not, the executor of that person's will may file it with the court in order to begin the probate, during which the court will ultimately distribute all property in accordance with that document. 

As an heir and/or beneficiary, you may receive a copy of the will or at least receive the opportunity to read it. When you do, you realize that something just isn't right. Its contents make you question whether the will is valid, but you aren't sure if your suspicions are backed up by a legal reason to challenge the will.

Do you get confused when you see various acronyms regarding supplemental financial assistance and insurance benefits at work, such as SSI, SSDI or SSA? Navigating a benefits claim can be challenging enough without adding further complication if you don't understand the differences between these things. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is a government agency that oversees programs offering retirement, disability and survivors' benefits. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to people who have paid into the system through payroll deductions.

On the other hand, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is designed to help those who do not qualify for SSDI. If you have suffered a mental or physical disability and are unable to return to the workplace, you may have need of such benefits to help meet medical and daily living expenses. Outside guidance and support is often helpful if you plan to apply for SSDI or SSI, especially if the SSA denies your claim.