According to a report published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration on Aging, nearly 17 percent of the population is comprised of Americans ages 65 and over. The number of older Americans drastically increased in just ten years, rising 36 percent from 39.6 million in 2009, to 54.1 million in 2019.

One of the most beneficial tools for estate planning practices is often the most underutilized: the personal information form. The information collected on this intake form sets the stage for a successful initial client meeting and a fruitful and satisfying long-term relationship between attorney and client. A completed form helps attorneys guage clients’ values, concerns and goals which can guide discussion during an initial consultation and yields optimal asset protection planning.

Proactive planning is designed to allow people to qualify for Medicaid without losing most, if not all their resources. The main strategy is to utilize special planning techniques to make appropriate transfers at least five years before applying for institutional level of care benefits.