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Florham Park ~ Sparta ~ Paramus ~ New York City
Phone: 973-539-1000
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From the Desk of Renata A. Mizak, Esq.
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Renata A. Mizak, Esq.
Certified Elder Law Attorney
Email: RMizak@spsk.com
Direct Line: 973-295-3680
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Gratitude and Planning: A Season of Reflection
As we enter November, a month steeped in gratitude and reflection, it is a fitting time to consider the legacy we are building for our loved ones and intended beneficiaries. Estate planning is more than just documents—it is about preserving values, protecting dignity, and ensuring peace of mind. Whether you are reviewing your will, updating powers of attorney, or considering long-term care options, this season invites you to pause and make sure your plans reflect your current wishes and family dynamics. It is also a good time to talk with loved ones about your intentions, so they feel informed and supported.
In elder law, November reminds us of the importance of proactive care planning, especially as we approach the end of the year. For those caring for aging parents or navigating dementia-related concerns, now is the time to revisit healthcare directives, evaluate benefits eligibility, and ensure legal protections are in place. As a Certified Elder Law Attorney, I am here to guide you through these decisions with compassion and clarity.
Let us use this season of thankfulness to affirm the care and security we want for ourselves and those we cherish. On behalf of the attorneys and staff, I wish you and your family a peaceful, joyful, and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving.
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Meet Thomas R. Lahey, Esq.
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The New Jersey State Legislature overwhelmingly passed legislation, which amends existing law to permit parents, relatives, or other interested parties to initiate a guardianship action for a minor who is an alleged incapacitated person up to 180 days prior to the minor attaining the age of eighteen (18).
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Annual Gift Tax and Estate Tax Exemptions for 2026
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The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released the gift tax and estate tax exclusions going into effect January 1, 2026.
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Survey Highlights Inheritance Expectation Gap
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A recent survey shows that fewer younger adults said they expect to receive an inheritance, despite the fact that older adults report that they are likely to leave one. These and other findings point to an interesting gap between older adults’ plans and younger generations’ more modest expectations.
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Estate Planning: Funding Your Revocable Living Trust
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Trust funding is the process of transferring the ownership of your accounts and property to your trust during your lifetime.
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How TV Shows Can Prompt Real-Life End-of-Life Planning
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Thinking about the end of our lives can be so unappealing that many of us put it off. However, people are beginning to discuss the subject more readily, and some television shows may be helping to lead the way.
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How Medicare Changes in 2026 Will Affect Older Adults
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Medicare is rolling out several important changes in 2026 that are intended to lower prescription drug costs, strengthen consumer protections, and test new ways of managing care. If you're enrolled in Medicare, or will be soon, here's what you need to know.
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Older Adults, Veterans Affected by Reduced SNAP Benefits
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Older adults and veterans often have small financial cushions and special dietary or mobility needs. Even a short pause in SNAP benefits can produce immediate harm.
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Medicare Open Enrollment Scams: How to Protect Yourself
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Medicare's open enrollment period, which runs from October 15 through December 7, brings a surge in Medicare-related scams, as fraudsters exploit a confusing health insurance system and the flood of legitimate marketing to trick beneficiaries into giving up personal information or switching to fake plans.
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2.8 Percent COLA Increase for 2026 Social Security Benefits
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On October 24, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2026.
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Florham Park: 220 Park Avenue, Florham Park, New Jersey 07932
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Sparta: 351 Sparta Avenue, Sparta, New Jersey 07871
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Paramus: 115 West Century Road, Suite 100, Paramus, New Jersey 07652
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