Legal

A letter of instruction is a legally non-binding document that gives your heirs information crucial to helping them tie up your affairs. Without such a letter, it can be easy for heirs to miss important items or become overwhelmed trying to sort through all the documents you left behind. ...

Everyone should have a durable financial Power of Attorney, durable health care Power of Attorney and a Living Will Declaration. Consider whether you want your new spouse to have the authority to deal with your financial affairs or if you plan to keep your finances separate from your spouse’s. A prenuptial agreement may dictate how that is handled. Consider whether you would rather have your children making medical decisions for you. This may include end-of-life choices, so be careful who you choose. ...

Modifications may be necessary to make your home accessible and safe. If you pay for the modifications because it’s your house, it might not make your house more valuable. Sometimes they make your home less desirable when you eventually sell it. You need an open and honest discussion with your folks as to who pays the costs, and it probably makes sense to put it in writing. ...

If you legally change your name because of marriage, divorce, court order or any other reason, you must notify Social Security right away so you can get a corrected card. You need an updated Social Security card to work, collect Social Security benefits and receive certain government services. You cannot apply to change your name online. ...

While we're all taking a break from our normal routines, this is a good time to update your estate plans. Law offices are essential businesses, according to the latest state coronavirus regulations, and FaceTime and Zoom virtual conferences are a good way to start. ...

The Bash is Back, and this time we're over on the West Side for another afternoon and evening of entertainment, food and information, all geared to people 50+. And if you're an animal lover, you'll like our "pet" charity: The Sanctuary for Senior Dogs. ...

Do you know someone who makes a great impact, improving the lives of others in an exceptional way? From housing to healthcare, employment, recreation and more, here's your chance to nominate those who are creatively addressing Better Living After 50!  ...

It’s important that Deaf/HoH children and adults have access to American Sign Language (ASL) as a way to connect with the world around them. ASL interpreters help bridge the communications gap between the hearing and Deaf/HoH communities. ...