Elder, Estate Planning, & Special Needs Law News 

Happy Summer

As we welcome the summer season, we are focusing this month's newsletter on awareness — understanding the systems we rely on, recognizing  the risks that may threaten them, and staying informed about the health challenges many families face as loved ones age.

In this issue, we take a closer look at why the full retirement age for Social Security benefits is now 67 instead of 65 — and what that means for your planning. We are also sounding the alarm on a recent wave of phishing scams targeting Social Security recipients, with practical tips to help you protect yourself and those you care about. Finally, we share important information about Parkinson’s disease in older adults, offering guidance and resources for families navigating this complex condition.

Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have when it comes to safeguarding our well-being and legacy. We hope you find this month’s articles both timely and helpful.

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In addition to kicking off summer with a focus on awareness, the summer months are also a great time to revisit your planning goals and ensure your affairs are in order.  Whether you are reviewing an existing plan or exploring new strategies, we are here to support you every step of the way.

If you have questions or need assistance with your planning, please do not hesitate to reach out us.

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Legal Update: Earlier this year, our office sent out a Special Update regarding changes to the Illinois Power of Attorney Act, which may have an impact on Durable Powers of Attorney for Property. If you missed the update and would like more information, you can access the update by clicking the following link: January 2025, Special Update.

YouTube Video Series: Have you checked out our four (4) part YouTube video series -- "Roadmap to Retirement 2.0" yet? If not, we encourage you to check it out. This video series is designed to provide you with valuable insights and practical steps to help you plan with confidence and peace of mind. You will find us and this video series on YouTube at Estate & Elder Law Planning & More 4 U. 

As always, we encourage you to stay informed and take steps now to protect your future!

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                           Scheduling a presentation for your group:

Is your group in need of a speaker?  If so, please do not hesitate to contact our office to discuss topic options and to determine whether one of our presentation topics aligns with the needs of your group.

Legal Services:

Should you or someone you know wish to meet with one of our attorneys for assistance with (or to discuss options for): estate, life care, and/or long-term care planning; special needs planning; and/or, other planning matters, please do not hesitate to contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys.  It would be our pleasure to meet with you to review your current planning and/or to discuss planning options for your consideration.

Additional Legal Services:

Selling and/or buying a new home; commercial property; and/or other real estate?

Starting a new business; or need your corporate records updated?   

Recently injured, and uncertain of your rights? 

If any of the above apply to you, or someone you know, then please visit the website of our parent law firm, Mickey, Wilson, Weiler, Renzi, Lenert, & Julien, P.C., to learn more about the additional legal services we offer.

Reminder:  Out of an abundance of caution and to do our continued part in helping to keep our clients, staff, and their respective families as safe as possible, all non-signing appointments for our elder law clients and for our estate and life care planning clients with the following attorneys: Connie Renzi or Katie Lenert, remain "virtual" (via video or telephone conferencing). 

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Help for those who may be struggling with mental health issues:  If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues and needs assistance, help is available by calling or texting the recently launched three-digit dialing code – “988”. The new 988 dialing code to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, for mental health crises, is available throughout the United States.  Additionally, veterans can now dial 988 and press 1 to reach the Veteran Crisis Line.