You’re starting to think about what your future is going to look like. Who is going to take care of you? Where are you going to live? And how are you going to cover your expenses?
With the help of a long-term care planning attorney in Washington, you can figure out the answers to your questions and determine the right steps to take. Here are some questions you should ask them before you begin the planning process.
Why Do I Need to Hire a Long-Term Care Planning Attorney?
Ask them this question to find out the benefits of hiring an attorney specifically for long-term care planning. They will probably tell you about how they have expertise when it comes to protecting your assets. Then, you can pay for long-term care without worrying about it. They can also help you with powers of attorney for various situations and assist you with estate planning if you need assistance.
What Kinds of Costs Are Associated With Long Term Care?
Your attorney will be able to tell you the kinds of expenses you’ll have to pay as you get older and require more care. They may include medical, nursing home, or home healthcare bills and health insurance. Your attorney will also be able to give you information about qualifying for public assistance like Medicare.
How Can I Make Changes?
Let’s say something happens in your life and you need to go back and make changes to your documents. Ask your attorney how you can do this. You may also be curious regarding when you’d want to update your documents. Usually, you’d change them if one of your caretakers, like a spouse, passes away, and you need to switch it to someone else.
Where Should I Keep My Legal Documents?
Ask your attorney about the best place to store your legal documents. This is especially critical because caregivers and loved ones will need to know how to get to them in case of an emergency. Should you upload them to your phone? Store them somewhere in your house? Give copies to your loved ones and your attorney? Typically, they will tell you to put your documents in a safe place that is fire- and water-resistant, just in case.
What Is Your Experience?
You should find out about your attorney’s past experience, especially if you have a unique case. You want to make sure that they are prepared to handle your situation. You can also check out your attorney’s website and pages on Yelp and Google to find reviews from other clients. Additionally, ask your family and friends for recommendations so that you know people who have had first-hand experience with your potential attorney.
What Do You Charge?
It’s important to ask your attorney about what they charge clients. You want to find an attorney who is not only experienced but also one you can afford. Your attorney may charge you an hourly rate or give you a quote for a package deal. If you’re having trouble paying all at once, they might be able to provide a payment plan.
Reach Out to Legacy Law Group
If you need help with long-term care planning and have questions about it, you can contact the estate planning attorneys at Legacy Law Group in Eastern Washington, Spokane Valley, and Spokane itself. Get in touch with us at (509) 315-8087.
