2025 Articles

Social Security Fairness Act of 2023 May 2025 The Social Security Fairness Act of 2023, signed in early 2025, eliminates WEP and GPO, which had reduced Social Security benefits for many public workers. The SSA is now issuing retroactive payments (back to January 2024) and increasing monthly benefits. No action is needed if your contact info is up to date. Those previously denied benefits due to WEP/GPO can now apply.

Statutory Amendments Affecting the Illinois Power of Attorney for Property – Boon or Bane for Estate Planning Attorneys? By Mia O. Hernandez & Jennifer Bunker Skerston January 2025 Public Act 103-0994, effective January 1, 2025, amended the Illinois Power of Attorney Act to add and describe unreasonable and reasonable causes for a third party to refuse to honor powers of attorney for property. The impetus for the Act’s amendment was to redress the perceived problem that it is not uncommon for third parties to unreasonably reject powers of attorney for property.

Thirteen Red Flags for Spotting Problem Clients By Matthew Benson February 2025 The purpose of this article is to provide a list of “red flags:” the phrases that problematic or regrettable clients say or make reference to in initial consultations, so that they can be spotted early and encouraged to find counsel more suited to their disposition. If a client exhibits any of the following, it might be wise to question the wisdom of allowing them to hire you.

Upcoming Webinars January 2025 Mark your calendars for these upcoming webinars from the Office for Older Americans at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Updates & Resources June 2025 Updates and resources on various topics of interest to Elder Law practitioners.

Updates & Resources May 2025 Updates and resources on various topics of interest to Elder Law practitioners.

Updates & Resources February 2025 Updates and resources on various topics of interest to Elder Law practitioners.