the website of Lisa Nachmias Davis of the firm of
Davis O'Sullivan & Priest LLC Attorneys at Law

CT ELDER LAW LINKS PAGE
THIS PAGE LAST UPDATED COMPLETELY October 9, 2018 (more or less)
alerts, figures and odds and ends 10/26/24


Search entire site of sharinglaw.net (opens in a new tab):

TO USE THIS PAGE: (if you don't know the layout) - hit "CTR+F" to find something specific. Otherwise, LOOK AT THE INDEX -- "core primary sources" has a sub-index at the top.

  LINK TO INDEX for this page
  LINK TO CORE PRIMARY SOURCES INDEX
  LINK TO KEYCASES PAGE or the CONSUMERLINKS page
  LINK TO DSS EMAILS AND MEMORANDA
  HOW TO JOIN MY LISTSERV for CT elder lawyers
  TO PURCHASE THE ELDER LAW ANSWER BOOK 2023-2024 ed. by yours truly (I don't set the price)

"PDF" requires use of free Adobe Acrobat -

FINAL SECURE REGULATIONS ON RMDS ISSUED! Compare to proposed SECURE regulations published 2/24/22. Eff. 1/1/20, SECURE Act eliminates the "stretch" payout option for most beneficiaries of retirement accounts other than disabled/"chronically ill" people and certain trusts for their benefit, for minors, and for spouses. See text of SECURE (sec. 401 has changes, 501 has "fix" to kiddee tax) and "SECURE 2.0" adopted 12/2022 (136 Stat.5275).
HUD issues Notice H 2024-09 extending until July 1, 2025 the deadline for comply with the FINAL RULES issued for subsidized housing, 88 Fed. Reg. 9600, implementing "HOTMA" asset limit in HOTMA sec. 104 and clarifying treatment of income. Self-certification allowed for assets under $50,000, income only imputed to amounts over $50,000. Distributions from trusts only income if they include the trust's income. Irrevocable (and revocable) trusts that are not controlled by someone in the household are not assets, although revocable trust income counted as income. Proceeds of litigation that cause the resident to be disabled are excluded as are retirement accounts. Otherwise, $100,000 ASSET LIMIT and ownership of real estate that couuld be a home also prohibited. TBD what happens if someone transfers the excess assets to a revocable trust with non-household-member trustee, many think this works. Housing Authorities may be implementing already, private contractors (Carabetta) maybe not yet.
FINAL SSI RULE EXCLUDING "FOOD" FROM THE DEFINITION OF "IN-KIND SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE" eff 9/30/24 - in other words, it is OK to buy foood for someone on SSI, or for a trustee to purchase food for such a persn (assuming trust document allows it), and if a person on SSI lives at home, then unless the person receives ALL MEALS as well, then rather than having benefit reduced by a flat 1/3 SSI (the VTR rule), instead, SSA will determine actual value, capped at the 1/3 SSI + 20 -- and in CT this OUGHT to mean that if the person pays rent equal to 1/3 x SSI + 20 ($335), there is no reduction. That's my quick reading but check the details of the Federal Register text. To be continued. ALSO if anyone else is on SNAP etc. assumed separate meals.
New Husky C statewide limit is $1234 for single people -- eff 7/1/24. (That is, look at Husky charts online but with the $511 disregard it is 1234).
ESTATE RECOVERY: PA 22-118 secs. 449-458, 518, eff 7/1/22: NO MORE RECOVERY AT ALL -no liens on real estate-- no claims on inheritances - no claims on estates - no claims on litigation - EXCEPT (1) for some incarcerated persons (with expanded exceptions including homestead property), (2) where REQUIRED by federal law (institutional/waiver services for Medicaid) (recovered from decedent estates only), accident-related medicals recovered through litigation; (3) child support. NOTE - PA 24-81 sec.25-35: Eff. 7/1/24: no more recovery for DMR/DMHAS. PA 21-2 (SS) is now old news -- forget it -- except for a few tweaks to the DAS 4a-16 certificate used to take over administration of a small estate under sec. 454. Ditto PA 21-3. However, under 42 U.S.C. 1396k accident-related medicals still recovered (but see federal cases). Statutes say 'except as requried by federal law," so FYI the federal law on recovery that makes clear it's only REQUIRED from decedemt's estates and only for institutional care: 42 U.S.C. Sec. 1396p(b). NOTE: DAS MAY STILL TRY TO FILE A CLAIM FOR SERVICES THAT TURN OUTTO BE STATE-FUNDED (NONRECOVERABLE) HOME CARE FOR ELDERS, AND OTHER THINGS, IMPORTANT TO CHALLENGE / INSPECT ALL DAS CLAIMS AGAINST ESTATES. ALSO: under federal law, no estate recovery for ANY Medicaid if there is a living surviving spouse, or if decedent survived by disabled child or child under 21. (Not applicable to special needs trusts with a "payback" clause requiring reimbursement of all Medicaid from the trust upon beneficiary's death.)
Minimum community spouse protected amount increased to $50,000 eff. 7/1/22 (PA 22-118 sec. 253); DSS required to honor/comply with probate court orders eff. 10/1/22.PA 22-112
COVID-19 changed a lot now expired but still relevant when reviewing what was done. Public in 2020-2021. Most has "end of Public Health Emergency" at which point Medicaid autorenewals stop. Governor's Executive Order 7Q authorized: (1) Emergency expires 4/1/23 remote witnessing of wills if execution is supervised by a lawyer; (3) removing witness requirements for notarization; (2) remote documents -- subject to sometimes tricky requirements. Check, Long-Term Care Community "requiring a notarial act" Coalition's the CMS Coronavirus alert page, the page for Gov. Lamont's Executive Orders and the page for Coronavirus page, LTCF data.
CTElderDiscussion listserv MOVED to groups.io. If you are already subscribed, you are subscribed to the new list. If not, and you want to join, send an email to CTElderDiscussion@yahoo.com or CTElderDiscussion+owner@groups.io. The group is restricted and you will have to agree to the terms before being subscribed.
Mandatory probate e-filing eff 2/1/2020. Probate fees eff. 1/1/16 - $40,000 cap, 0.5% on excess over $2 M. Link to computation of fees using new tables (official or mine); note that most conservatorship petition fees are $250 except $150 to request release of funds from restricted account. WARNING to out-of-state residents: if assets are probated in CT, then unless the proceeding is "ancillary" to a probate proceeding in the home state, the court's fee will be computed as if the person were domiciliary -- that is based on EVERYTHING.

Note:  This information is maintained to benefit the elderly in Connecticut and nationwide by providing a resource to attorneys, caregivers, and others assisting the elderly.  However, accuracy and currency are not guaranteed. USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Please report changes, errors, and suggestions to Lisa Davis. Thanks.

or = relatively new addition to this page = Tech Help (Click HERE for tech Q&A)

Links to CBA section sites may require login using a CBA login and password unless you have already logged in

CORE PRIMARY SOURCES OF LAW
(and "key numbers") (with sub-index)

 CONNECTICUT ELDER LAW RESOURCES NATIONAL ELDER LAW RESOURCES
GENERAL LEGAL RESEARCH SOURCES
and other useful tools		 CBA Elder Law Section
Home Page		 SELECTED SEARCH ENGINES
ELDER LAW: OTHER STATES

INTERNET MAILING LISTS
CT Elder Law Discussion 

 E-NEWS SUBSCRIPTIONS


    CORE "PRIMARY SOURCES" OF LAW FOR CONNECTICUT ELDER LAW ATTORNEYS

DSS Applications and Planning Tools
 Key Numbers
Federal Statutes Pending federal legislation Federal regulations and policy Federal Taxes Federal Courts and Cases State Statutes Pending state legislation State regulations and policy State
Taxes		 State Courts
and Cases


DSS APPLICATIONS and PLANNING TOOLS -
(DSS forms are in large PDF files due to shading)
NOTE: DSS is putting more forms on its website, although not usually in fillable form. Check the current DSS Publications Page - Applications to be sure the form below is the current version and to check for newer forms. -- BUT IT MAY BE EASIER TO USE THE 7/2017 DSS APPLICATIONS PAGE TO FIND THINGS -- THANKS WAYBACK MACHINE!. (Careful, we don't use W-1LTC any more). ALSO: you can apply for LTC online.
Selected DSS memoranda and other communications
Non-Long Term Care Application W-1E for community Husky C (NOT RCH state supp)
Long-Term Care Medicaid Application W-1LTSS (or connect.ct.gov)
NOTE: For SNF, submit to one of 3 regional offices; for home care submit to Hartford (South Windsor) PLUS filing W-1487 with the access agency. Provide as much documentation as possible. READ MEMO. For state supp., use W-1LTSS and read memo on which office to file with. For redeterminations still send to DSS Scanning Center, PO Box 1320, Manchester CT 06045-9968. If mailing LTC app to theregions, send certified mail and follow up!
Spousal Assessment W-1-SA (which you need PLUS W-1487 to get a snapshot date and spousal assessment PRIOR to eligibility...- made FILLABLE by Steve Keogh
W-1487 CHCPE Home Care request form (PDF) and Word- link to DSS site (can also apply online
W-1540 and other ANNUITY FORMS (thanks Joe Cipparone)
Maximus "level of care" determination form for home care
W-168 Verification List (PDF)
W-1685 (rev 3/05) (fillable PDF) as of 2023 this is still current
W-858 (legally liable relative form) (PDF)
DSS "caretaker child" transfer of assets inquiry/response - SAMPLE (PDF)
Disability determination forms W-300T19 no longer needed for pooled trusts for those over 65-- see DSS email - also see sample form to use instead for pooled trusts.
You must be a member of PLAN to use their forms. Write me if you want to see the forms.
W-1QMB (new 2010 QMB application form -- made fillable by me (PDF) or CHECK DSS site version - mail to scanning center, DSS ConneCT Scanning Center, PO Box 1320, Manchester, CT 06045-1320
W-1ER (recertification form) FILLABLE courtesy of Michele Ann Palulis - thanks NOTE THAT UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE, redeterminations must be mailed not faxed, to: DSS Scanning Center, PO Box 1320, Manchester CT 06045-9968. link to DSS version. If you don't respond at least 10-15 days BEFORE end of month you will still get a notice that you are being terminated even if they receive the materials on time.
W-982 PCA-Waiver Request Form (made fillable, PDF) SEE: Pilot Guidelines (MS Word)
W-1130 ABI Waiver Request Form (made fillable, PDF) or DSS W-1130
CHCPD (CT Home care for disabled) application (remember, only 100 slots all filled) (only for those not eligible for medicaid)
W-979 Money Follows the Person Request Form (2009 form, PDF) or ONLINE APPLICATION for Money Follows the person -it would appear online is now the way to go.
CONNECT page to create account and apply online for everything.
CT SNAP manual
ALLIED -- PCA /ABI provider application and other forms for those on this program
Rev. 3/2022 Compute CSPA spreadsheet in Excel OR use online (INTERACTIVE) OR if the interactive doesn't work or you use Firefox, try the online-noi link. (don't forget "Family allowance" if applicant has a minor child -- computation not included!. UPDATE FIGURES!
Compute value of Life Use spreadsheet in Excel 97(to age 100) (see also DSS table - PDF)
Deb Tedford's "formula" for computing prudent gifting during look-back period. Excel or MS Word 2000 downloads. (BUT SEE transferee liability provisions)

An historical footnote: DSS chart of AMCC and CSPA amounts from 1/91 to 7/08
TECH HINT 1: PDF files are LARGE and slow; you may need to reboot / free up memory to view/print
TECH HINT 2: spreadsheets should be DOWNLOADED and opened in Excel, formatting is lost if "viewed" with a plug-in. Right-click to "save" to hard-drive

NOTE: (1) VA forms/info are below; (2) Social Security Administration forms/info are below

KEY NUMBERS -- see handy but not yet updated to 2024 CHOICES QuickGuide!
  Eff 1/1/23 Eff 1/1/24
Max CSPA (w/o hearing) $148,620 $154,140
Min CSPA  $50,000 $50,000
Max MMNA (w/o hearing) $3,715.50 $3,853.50
Max CT home equity exemption if home not occupied by spouse or disabled or minor child $1,033,000 $1,071,000
Income cap for home care/AABD (need pooled trust if more income than cap) (3 x SSI) $2,742 $2,829
  Eff 7/1/23 Eff 7/1/24
"Average Monthly Cost of Care" penalty divisor $14,524 $14,939
Min CSPA (PA 22-118) $50,000 $50,000
Min MMNA (150% of FPL for 2)* 2,465 $2,555
Shelter (30% of Min MMNA number) (30% x150% x FPL for 2) $739.50 $766.50
Utility allowance ("SUA") (changes in October) $912 eff10/1/23 $950 eff 10/1/24
SNF Personal Needs Allowance $75 $75
  Eff 3/1/23 Eff 3/1/24
CHCPE personal needs allowance (200% FPL for 1) $2,430 $2,510
Other Transfer Penalties ($ = 1 mo) Eff 1/1/24 Eff 1/1/25
State Supp. (no cap; 24 month look-back) ABLE ACCOUNTS AND D4A TRUSTS EXCLUDED $500 $500
SSI (36-month cap; 36 month look-back)
(divisor = full benefit rate) (starts month AFTER transfer) (Note: 2023 SGA=1310/blind=2,190)		 $943 $967
VA aid & attendance numbers Eff 12/1/22 Eff 12/1/23
"Net worth" limit (counted assets plus 1 year of income) $150,538 $155,356
Monthly penalty divisor (MAPR for veteran with 1 dependent) (max 5 year penalty; 3 yr lookback) $2,642 $2,727
Food stamps or "SNAP" (see chart); 3 month lookback, but no penalties for those with no asset test; in CT if GROSS income under 185% FPL, no asset test. (If asset test applies, asset limit is $3500 but homes, retirement accounts, cars excluded.) max 1 year max 1 year
     
MEDICARE SAVINGS PLAN ELIGIBILITY entitles recipient to Medicare D (Rx) prescription help too. NO ASSET LIMIT, NO ESTATE RECOVERY.
3/2024 income limits: QMB = 211% FPL (single/couple $2,649/$3,595), SLMB = 231% FPL ($2,900/$3,935); ALIMB = 246% FPL ($3,088/$4,191). (FIGURES CHANGE IN MARCH)

"LIS" (low income subsidy) for Medicare Part D comes with enrollment in a restore funding). For Part D, click for guide to choosing plans which also identifies the "benchmark plans" where full premium (up to $43.53 in 2024) and copay covered for those with LIS extra help. (PDF). SWCAA benefits guide explains the 3 levels of LIS.

MEDICARE INFO 2024 Standard premium $174.70; SNF coinsurance $204/day in 2024; $1,632 deductible for each hospital stay, days 61-90 have a $408/day copay.

HOME CARE PROGRAM LIMITS: State-funded (3% copay -- NOTE -- FORMS MAY SAY OTHERWISE) limit on assets 1/1/24: $46,242/single, $61,656/couple. CHCPE Cat. 3 (Medicaid waiver) income cap: $2,829 (300% SSI for 2024, $2901 eff. 1/1/25); if exceed cap, may be able to qualify using pooled trust for excess income. Income contribution required of income over $2,510 (figure based on 200% FPL, but changes in MARCH not JANUARY) See also: ctelderlaw.org; link to provider directory TIP: NO MORE "PAYBACK" OR RECOVERY AT DEATH FOR STATE-FUNDED HOME CARE BUT DAS MAY BE CONFUSED AND TRY IT, ESP. IF PERSON GETS MEDICAID AFTER. chart shows 2023 figures and cost caps.

HUSKY D, HUSKY C: Click for full state info, annual charts (ABD), monthly charts (ABD). Husky D for singles is $20,783 / $1,732 yearly/monthly income eff. 3/2024 (changes 3/1). For Husky C remember to add an "unearned income disregard" -- for someone in the community,eff 3/1/24 $511, bringing the single numbers to $1234 per DSS site. Note: Husky D is supposed to be 138% FPL; although FPL changes in January figures based on the FPL change in March, the month in which FPL amounts used to be relaesed. Income can be reduced using a d4a trust or pooled trust. Individual can qualify with more income subject to a spenddown on accrued medical expenses aka deductible of 6 months income minus 6 months x $1234. Supposedly, DSS can project medical expenses for 6 months to meet spenddown.Remember SO-5 MedCONNECT Husky C (working disabled) has $75,000 income limit, $10,00 asset limit plus IRAs. Handy SWCAA guide here.

Lisa Davis simplified "updates" of Kate McEvoy Public Initiatives document (2020) (NOT CURRENT -- FOR DDS / DMHAS CHECK THEIR SITES)

VA Benefit limits: See VA llist of current "improved pension" amounts (scroll down to A&A for veteran wiith or without dependents) and list of amounts for widows/widowers. note that VA medical benefits now include personal care assistance.

In general: link to all WAIVER COST CAPS (PDF); direct link to CTElderLaw.org public benefits or Health Care programs summaries (includes basic Husky C info but can be out of date). See also Federal Poverty Levels. Also Useful: Ct Partnership "long-term care in CT" rates (change year in the urL to get diff plus erent year). Also DSS Medicaid waiver fact sheet. or CMS waiver summary

AABD/State Supp (pays residential care homes): 7/2024 disregards: $511 community, $418.70 for licensed boarding facility (RCH) plus a personal needs allowance of $33.38). Cap $2829 in 2024, $2901 in 2025 (300% SSI), VA aid and attendance excluded. NOTE: DSS will only exclude the portion that is the "aid and attendance" enhancement to pension e.g. for a single veteran, e.g. (eff 12/2023) $921.50 - compare with and without. For explanation how this works, see 2012 article on AABD (PDF) and use new figures, or check Lisa Davis Public Initiatives. NOTE #2: DSS is not counting d4a Trusts as resources; establishing a trust gives rise to a penalty period if funded within 2 years prior to application or when receiving benefits. NOTE #3: figures should be doublechecked.
. Legal Services organizations' eligibility limits (estimated) (generally, 200% of FPL,!)

FEDERAL SOURCES

CONNECTICUT SOURCES
FEDERAL STATUTES In general: try FDSys (federal digital system)
Search Findlaw's US Code (USE CAUTION - not always current)
Search House of Rep's US Code (gives the date)
Cornell's US Code
Popular Name Table
U.S. Code Title 42, Cornell U. version.
View online entire Social Security Act (current to 12/20/19, showin top of Title 1)
   1382b (Assets; part of SSI law)
   1396r (Nursing Homes)
   1396p (Liens and transfers)
   1396k (Assignment of rights)
   1396r-5 (MCCA)
   Title XVIII (Medicare)
Relevant portions of the ABLE Act (I deleted the extraneous) (PDF)
Medicaid laws AS AMENDED by Deficit Reduction Act - with annotations by the fabulous Tim Takacs (42 USC 1396p-r) (PDF) - plus amendment.
VA benefits: Title 38 in general
Older Americans Act 42 U.S.C. 3001 et seq. (current to 1/1/06); see Older Americans Act Amendments of 2006 (PDF) and Older Americans Reauthorization Technical Corrections Act of 2007 (PDF).

Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (unofficial consolidated version prepared by House Office of Legislative Counsel) -- as long as we still have it.......

 STATE STATUTES (tax statutes are below under taxes)
Entire Connecticut General Statutes 2023 compilation (it's compiled in odd years; there are supplements in the even years)

Search statutes and Public Acts 
On-line from the statutory compilation:
   1-350 et seq. (Uniform Power of Attorney Act) (2017 version)
   OLD 1-42 et seq. (OLD Short Form Durable Power of Attorney) (2014 version) (included for purposes of construing older documents)
   4a-16 (administration of estates of medicaid recipients by DSS)
Title 12 (Taxes)
Title 45a (Probate) including 45a-486 (trustbusting)
Conservatorship statutes -- see also Uniform Adult Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act,
Title 17b (Social Services  
  17b-91(f) burial contract BUT SEE PA 19-57
  17b-95 estate recovery (DON'T FORGET, federal law preempts! see also 17b-91(e)
  17b-451 Elder Abuse, but see updates in PA 15-236
Title 19a (Public Health)
   19a-533 (waiting list rule)
   19a-535 (transfer and discharge) SEE: PA 11-236 - changes discharge / transfer rules
   19a-550 (patient's bill of rights)
   19a-570 et seq (Living Wills)

historical compilation of Important Public Acts (in addition to those below)
PA 09-73 (PDF) permitting residents of RCH to transfer income over the AABD income cap into pooled trust accounts in order to be eligible for AABD
PA 10-73 - Sec. 1 NOW REPEALED by PA 11-44 eff 7/1/11 (sec. 178) iincreased community spouse protected amount to "maximum"; Sec. 2 deals with treatment of reverse mortgages, not repealed, but doesn't appear in UPM
PA 15-240 adopting the Uniform Power of Attorney Act MODIFIED BY PA 16-40 and further MODIFIED by PA 17-91. N.B. for CBA and and FURTHER CATIC forms, CBA members click here.
PA 17-146, revision public health statutes -- see sec. 6 re: DNRs
P.A. 17-91 recognizing substitute decision-making documents act and revising CT UPOAA
P.A. 18-81: $2.6 M in 2018, $3.6 M in 2019, $5.1 M in 2020, $7.1 M in 2021, $9.1 M in 2022, "not over the federal exclusion amount" in 2023 with the excess subject to 12% CT estate tax.
PA 19-57 raises the funeral contract limit to $10,000.
PA 19-137 enaced Uniform Trust Code -- amended by PA 21-39
PA 21-3 raised PNA to $75, ELIMINATED REAL ESTATE LIENS with retroactive effect
PA 21-2 (SS) -- amends 4a-16, further amends state claims
PA 22-112 requires all state agences to honor/comply with probate court orders that the court had jurisdiction to issue, subject to the right of appeal of course(eff 10/1/22) (!!!)
PA 22-118 big changes reducing state claims, liens, and recovery, repeals 17b-94 -- see secs 449-458, 518. Sec. 235 raises minimum CSPA to $50,00 eff. 7/1/22.

PENDING FEDERAL LEGISLATION
"Thomas," Library of Congress (status of pending federal legislation)
Congressional Record (set to most recent)

Information on reauthorization of Older Americans Act (including text of relevant provisions) prepared by Center for Social Gerontology)

PENDING STATE LEGISLATION
General Assembly page (quick click HERE for status of pending legislation).
2022-23 Budget Implementer Bill (HB 5506 signed 5/7/22) -- see sections 449-458 etc. amending state claim and recovery statutes

FEDERAL REGULATIONS AND POLICY
GENERAL
Official Federal Register or "public" Federal Register
Code of Federal Regulations official site, so you can check versions in effect in different years.
alternate: "e-cfr" which is updated currently
Social Security Regulations (browsable) (current to 4/1/2008)
Title 42 (search or browse) (ecfr)
   Part 409 (Medicare Part A / nursing home care) 
   Part 431 (Fair Hearings) 
   Part 435 (Medicaid Eligibility)
   Part 483 (nursing home requirements) These were substantially improved in the 2016 cchanges to federal nursing home regulations published 7/1/16. In 2017 and subsequently, implementation of some provisions has been delayed; cllick here for the phased-in timetable.

SOCIAL SECURITY www.ssa.gov
Social Security Handbook
Social Security Rulings
Social Security POMS (Programs Operations Manual System) - searchable
SSA Recent Changes to POMS page (Transmittals, etc.)
POMS Life estate and remainder tables
Actuarial life expectancy tables (ssa.gov) (for annuities)
SSA Memos and Transmittals of Interest
SS Policy Interpretation re: disability over age 65, or PDF (68 Fed. Reg. 63833)
Social Security Forms, downloadable
Claimant representatives' page
List of "compassionate allowances" (fast track for Social Security disability)
Search engine for listing of reported deaths (from Ancestry.com)
2019 Social Security changes list (for following years, change the year in the URL) (PDF)

CENTERS FOR MEDICARE AND MEDICAID SERVICES (formerly HCFA) www.cms.gov
CMS Letters and Informational Bulletins
CMS Letter on treatment of ABLE accounts (PDF)
State Medicaid Manual (Publication 45) - download chapters as zip files: or
Transmittal 64 provisions (online) (CAUTION: not necessarily followed by CT Department of Social Services; 2/2006: may be superceded by portions of Deficit Reduction Act)
CMS List of CT waivers, with numbers or CT Waiver factsheet summary
Medicare page
CMS manuals - links to the new internet-only stuff but also has the current "paper" manuals for download as zip files as part of the Provider Reimbusement Manual Part 2 -- look at individual chapters.
- Hospital Provider Manual (zip)
- SNF manual (zip)
- HHA manual (zip)
Beneficiary Notices

CITIZENSHIP
Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (use Form N565 for proof of immigrant status/naturalization -- $345 fee (2015))

VA BENEFITS:
Final VA regulation (PDF) eff. 10/18/18 re: new asset limits (assets PLUS yearly income must be under Max CSPA above); transfer of asset penalties = 1 month = 1 month value of max MAPR for veteran with 1 dependent.
Title 38, 38 USC Chapter 3; 38 CFR Sec. 3 -- see 38 CFR sec.3.271(d) for fractional ownership rule (it's an income section of the CFR but is referred to in the "net worth" section); see 38 CFR sec. 3.276 regarding transfers, and the implications for trusts.
38 CFR 3.351 = aid & attendance
VA Fast Letter 12-23 (PDF) re: "deductibility" of room & board if NOT in assisted living facility
See Sharon Pope 2009 summary. (PDF)
The VA's UPM: M21-1MR Compensation and Pension Manual Rewrite, Veterans Benefits Administration References, Web Automated Reference Material System (WARMS) - Part 1, basic rules; Part 5
General Counsel Opinions (precedential) including opinion re: special needs trusts (.doc file)
National Cemetery Administration -- VA burial benefits
VA forms page -- direct link to authorization form to disclose info to 3rd party (PDF)
VA list of current "improved pension" amounts for veterans (scroll down to A&A with 1/no dependents) and list of amounts for widows/widowers (again scroll down) (shows annual only)
VA health benefits reference library -- list of publications
You can apply online: set your date, then get your info, then file within a year of establishing date.

STATE REGULATIONS AND POLICY
Link to state regulations -- browsable
Selected DSS memoranda and other communications.
Online UPM miserable to use - BEST TO GET THIS IN HARD COPY by emailing Debbie Love at DSS. Or, download entire UPM as a single 10 mb PDF, thanks to Diana O'Rourke. NOTE MUCH MUCH EASIER TO USE 7/2017 version can still be found! Click! (Remember that MANY RECENT CHANGES ARE NOT IN UPM SUCH AS RULES RE: HUSKY D, POOLED TRUSTS ETC.)
1972 State Medical Assistance Plan, (PDF) courtesy of Judy Hoberman - huge (13 mb) file
BENEFITS
   Index to CT Uniform Policy Manual (for convenience)
   simpler 8/2017 online UPM version that is easier to search!!!! thanks wayback machine!! or: CURRENT online UPM, infuriatingly difficult to use (although mobile-friendly version)
   DSS TRANSMITTAL 07-02 - DRA REGULATIONS eff 4/1/07 (PDF)
   Most recent update on regulations/UPM proposed to implement 2005 DRA (PDFs): - Notice of Decision, - Response to Comments, - Memo re: Response with Exhibits (consisting of CMS responses to DSS and to other states)
ALSO: - 72 pages, 3.5 mb PDF Revised proposed changes to UPM --

  Selections:
   "HOME" SECTIONS 4030.20 (PDF)
    DSS TRANSMITTAL UP 92-22 (PDF) -transmittal relating to CT Partnership policies
   (NOTE: due to quality, UP 92-22 is a large download)
    Working Disabled ("SO-5") provisions 2540.85 -- see Comptroller opinion 94-9a explaining that sheltered workshops do not qualify as "employment" -- this is relied upon by DSS in determining SO5 eligibility
   TRUST provisions 4030.80 in PDF
   Life Use Computation Tables to age 100 (DSS Norwalk -- PDF file)
   CMS List of CT waivers, with numbers (CT waivers are on page 3) including ABI and DDS ("comprehensive supports"); the links here are to the applications, previously downloaded, but medicaid.gov has the approval documents
   PCA Pilot Guidelines (MS Word; Issued summer 2010)

Historical
  DSS Bulletin on Medicaid for Low-Income Adults (PDF) and  INTERNAL MEMO/FAQ on Low-Income Medicaid (Husky D). (Thanks to Barbara Reynolds!) (note: after 1/2014 may not apply as Affordable Care Act provisions regarding MAGI etc. prevail)
  Transmittal 06-14 Spousal refusal changes to deeming rules (PDF)

USEFUL STUFF ON BENEFITS - - SUMMARIES AND DETAILS
  
   Kate McEvoy "Public Initiatives" booklet (PDF) (current to 2012)
Lisa Davis simplified "updates" of Kate's document (October 2013)
  Sharon Pope summary on VA Aid & Attendance (PDF) - 1/09
  My article, Connecticut's "State Supp" (AABD) Benefit - (PDF) 2012, see new disregards
  Hoberman/Shedd article on Holocaust reparations
- OLR report (2005) summarizing Home Care waivers overall (#276)
- OLR report (2005) summarizing elderly home care (#328)

DSS chart on all levels of home care programs.

NOTICES, PRONOUNCEMENTS
Selected DSS memoranda and other communications
AG's "dire warning" on so-called "Medicaid annuities." Note, this was "updated" in 2009 -- post-DRA.
PIB 12-02 (PDF) 2012 DSS Transmittal re: VERIFICATION in processing apps.POOLED TRUST "program information bulletin" 4/15/09 (PDF)
Lopes decision DSS implementing email; see DHHS amicus brief (PDF)

NURSING HOMES AND OTHER FACILITIES
Public Health Code and regulations
CTElderLaw.org summaries on nursing home law
CMS State Operations Manual "Surveyor's Guidelines" (PDF)
Don't forget to read PA 11-236 - changes to nursing home discharge / transfer rules
Eric Carlson's 20 Common Nursing Home Problems and How to Resolve Them (free to download the PDF, but not to duplicate), an update of Eric Carlson's "15 Lies" (PDF) Also available: NCCNHR (The Consumer voice) fact sheets.
Further summary of law prohibiting discharge pending review of Medicaid application

DSS Medicaid-rate info and rates for nursing homes (PDF)
DSS state-rate letters for residential care homes (PDF)
Note: you can check a particular facility's licensure or check for updates at "elicense.ct.gov" which checks licensures.
Unofficial DSS Provider Registery for home care facilities - spreadsheet
CT Partnership Cost of long-term care rates of various kinds; change year in URL for current year. DSS uses these rates for caregiver contracts.

FEDERAL TAXES (check www.sharinglaw.net/npo/links.htm also)
Internal Revenue Code (Cornell U.) (see H. Rep. list of updates)
Tax Regulations (e-cfr)
IRS Forms and Publications - current and prior years
Legalbitstream.com - searchable database of ALL online tax resources
IRB, letter rulings etc. in the FOIA library
Useful ABA 2015 summary of important revenue rulings every practitioner should know
New Fax Number/address for applying for an EIN (eff. 1/4/2002) ... OR ...
GET EIN ONLINE!!! Click and carefully go through the questions.
Call (866) 699-4083 for status of estate and gift tax returns.
FAX FORM 2848 IN MOST CASES FOR CT TAXPAYERS TO 901-546-4115
Call priority phone # for professionals 1-866-860-4259 or see hotline list
IRS charts on IRA minimum distributions (PDF) (BENEFICIARY INFO OBSOLETE)
Noel Ice's analysis of PRE-2020 retirement distribution regs. (I recommend you read the hyperlinked version and skip the PDF)
2001 Tax Reform Act exemption changes
Fabulous Orr & Reno table summarizing ALL EGTRRA tax changes
EGTRRA on Thomas (PL 107-16) (you may have to "search" again) or PDF
AFRs of all kinds on Pa. lawyer Dan Evan's site - also 7520 rates
H.R. 4853 or in PDF or Congressional summary of key provisions
IRS Publication 78 (charitable deductibility) information for prior 30 years

NOTE: See handy chart with 50 state death tax info (McGuire Woods, kudos!)

STATE TAXES

CT tax statutes
SB 548 (PA 18-81) estate tax rates / tables
Excel spreadsheet for quick computation of CT Estate Tax and federal taxes only through 2022 (L Davis)

DRS current year CT 706 and CT 706-NT; prior years - generally fillable if you wait.

Note: CT adjusts estate tax exemptions with Public Act 18-81: $2.6 M in 2018, $3.6 M in 2019, $5.1 M in 2020, $7.1 M in 2021, $9.1 M in 2022, "not over the federal exclusion amount" in 2023 with the excess subject to 12% CT estate tax.

DRS on-line income-tax calculator
Department of Revenue Services Forms
DRS Regulations
DRS compilation of estate income/succession tax regulations (obs)

For prior years: Succession Tax forms and Wiggin & Dana article on the phase-out; (NOTE: you use the 2005 S-1 and S-2 forms even for prior years)


Also re: pre-2005 gifts: Gift Tax Forms and information

FEDERAL COURTS AND CASES
Findlaw
great alternative: Chesslaw
US Supreme Court Cases 1937-1975 (vols 300-422) fedworld) (search page)
United States Courts Opinions website (2005-present, all courts)
Second Circuit (Findlaw - 1995-present) or official site: 2007-now
District of Connecticut Opinions (selected; since 1999)
District of CT rules and orders (incuding links to federal rules of evidence and civ. pro.)
Selected "key cases"
CBA "Casemaker" research (log in as a CBA member first) (has D.Conn. cases)

STATE COURTS AND CASES
Probate Court site (list of fees; dowload forms in PDF) Other important probate links: Probate Practice Book (PDF),site with locations, fees, FORMS, manuals / attorney guide (note that forms are updated QUARTERLY so always check!!), Conservatorship standards of practice.
Probate Court Clerk's manual updated to 12/2014 (thanks, Andrew Knott)
Practitioners: I recommend you subscribe to the Quinnipiac Probate Law Journal, which publishes CT probate court decisions of note as well as some from other states, articles, etc.
Write to Probate Court Administration for a booklet of probate courts and phone numbers.
Quickie list of courts by town (not PDF)
  Probate Court forms (NEW fillable PDF forms available!)
  FEES: CGS 45a-107
  Probate Court administration fee computation tool
  Excel Spreadsheet to compute probate fees for those dying before 1/1/15
  Excel Spreadsheet to compute probate fees (current rates) (shows breakdown of fee brackets)
  Probate Court Administration memo summarizing new interest on probate fees
   Link to probate "user guides."
Opinions of CT Supreme and Appellate Courts (PDF) since July, 2000.
Selected "key cases" for CT attys - elder and special needs law (with links)
"Asset Protection Book" website page of CT cases and laws (2010)
--- see handy chart of federal/state bankruptcy protections (2011)
CBA "Casemaker" research (log in as a CBA member first)
Judicial department "case lookup" website where you can check status of cases, read memoranda in cases pending and concluded and you can follow developments in pending cases too.
CT Practice Book (PDF)- ethics opinions now ONLY on Casemaker


CONNECTICUT ELDER LAW RESOURCES                                                                                             Return to Page Index
   (in alphabetical order)

Agency on Aging of South Central CT The site includes Information about the many programs the Agency provides, including the home care program.
CT Bar Association Elder Law Section This page was originally the Section's "links page." Highly recommended: join the CT Bar Association and the Elder Law Section. You will have access to CaseMaker, online legal research, as well as many other resources. For those logged in as members you can somehow find your way to the Groyu Pages including Advocacy information, Meetings and Materials, Educational resources and Links.
CT Chapter of NAELA CT NAELA has grown since its formation a few years ago. The website will soon include (probably for members only) copies of fair hearing decisions as well as many other useful resources. Click for news. "Find an elder law attorney" will bring up a list of members.

CT Department of Administrative Services

This is where you go to find out what is the lien with respect to Medicaid or other benefits, payable upon receipt of an inheritance or personal injury settlement. For liens repaid during lifetime (e.g. on the home), contact DSS. However, for liens relating to care in a state psychiatric institution, contact Tony Nunes at DAS. You can write or fax to: but better is to call first and get someone's NAME and then fax. Fax a release as well. Address: 165 Capitol Avenue Hartford, CT 06106. Bureau of Collection Services: (860) 713-5400. Fax # (860) 713-7408
CT Department of Developmental Services DDS (formerly DMR) site --- not so much "elder law" as special needs (of which more information on www.sharinglaw.net/disability/helplinks.htm). Updated with a lot more information and links to programs and even the DDS services manual.
CT Department of Revenue Services DRS site has links to forms and a lot of other stuff -- click here for the links above on this page.
CT Department of Social Services -

Don't forget to check Eligibility Info for Husky

 New statewide number: 855-626-6632. eff. 7/8/13. Link to create a "conneCT" login here. List of toll-free numbers.
Otherwise, the formerly useful DSS site IMHO is now absolutely TERRIBLE, part of the terrible "CT portal" that instead of sensible pages with sensible links to useful information, starts with a revolting list of "most popular (!) resources," rarely the one you want, and then a menu down the side with hopelessly generic links. If you have to search for something you may not find it as much of the useful information has been removed. For example, if you TRY to find "Protective Services" it will take you 10 minutes. Fortunately I've found it for you, here it is: Protective Services In case they remove it, you can click for MY download of DSS Protective Services brochure (PDF). No more "Aging Services Manual" but you can still get the 2016 version, available online; State Supplement program FAQ and bulletin (but without the eligibility numbers, alas), and other publications. Has locations of field offices but don't file for long-term care there -- click on APPLICATIONS page for address / fax #. The DSS publication "Long-Term Care Issues and Medicaid" is only current to 2013 and presumably not getting updated. Click for Husky eligibility whether Husky A, B, or C (traditional) or D (low income). To apply for Husky D you generally need to go to AccessHealth and apply there. Link here for general application information. And write to Patricia Jackowski or call him at 860-424-5814 for an up-to-date list of assisted living facilities participating in the pilot Medicaid program covering assisted living OR to get on the waiting list which is now pretty short -- about 3-6 months due to restrictions in eligibility, presumably.
PROTECTIVE SERVICES: To report cases of suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation, call the toll-free In State referral line at 1-888-385-4225, Out of State call Infoline at 1-800-203-1234. After Hours Elder Abuse Emergencies, In State call Infoline at 211, Out of State call Infoline at 1-800-203-1234. (I'm tired of the State changing the location for this information on its website!)
The Connecticut Elder Law website (CTElderLaw.org) Consumer-oriented site on Connecticut Elder Law topics.  Maintained by Connecticut Legal Services with support from the ABA, the Eastern Connecticut Area Agency on Aging and the CHOICES program. Now part of the Legal Services Network "ctlawhelp" site with information on all kinds of topics. Direct link to Goverment Benefit Information page.
CT Hospice Includes information on inpatient and home care hospice services.
CT Office of the Health Care Advocate "The office focuses on: assisting consumers to make informed decisions when selecting a health plan; assisting consumers in resolving problems with their health plans, and; identifying and advocating on issues, trends and problems that may require executive, regulatory or legislative intervention." Access: 1-866-HMO-4446, FAX: (860) 297-3992
E-mail: Healthcare.advocate@ct.gov
CT Insurance Department Has pages detailing Medicare supplemental policy rates (PDF)in Connecticut; page listing companies that offer them; page with list of companies offering LTC policies including CT Partnership policies; article on mental health benefits in CT; and compilation of insurance regulations.
LINK to letter 2001 from CT Ins. Dept and CT Dept. Consumer protection re: ANNUITIES; useful when getting a client out of an ill-advised annuity purchase.
CT Legislative Commission on Aging Includes tracking reports and other legislative updates. Sign up for e-bulletins.
CT Long-Term Care Ombudsman's office CT's long-term care ombudsman talks about advocacy volunteers and fundraising. CTlawhelp page with phone numbers.
CT Partnership for Long Term Care Thank you David Guttchen for continuing to have (relatively) easy to find and USEFUL information. Keep clicking to the OPM pages that have the good stuff. More complete than the Insurance Department site; includes a wealth of statistical information on costs of long-term care, a summary of Medicare eligibility limits for long-term care. Links to OPM "Cost of Care in Connecticut" (PDF) (change year in URL to get current year info); has prices for each nursing home AND home health agency in the state.
CT Public Health Dept. USED TO includes page with Public Health Code and regulations. As usual with the rest of the horrible CT portal you can't find everything easily anymore but can search. You can write to the department for their annual review of nursing homes and home health agencies, or download the nursing home book. (PDF) The catch: the info is current only to 2011-2012. You can still check on licensure (SNF or RCH?) at elicense.ct.gov
CT Rental Assistance programs RAP regulations: 17b-812-6, 17b-812-9 and 17b-812-11a.
CT State Homepage  Official state page with connections to all branches of state government
Includes STATE EMPLOYEE PHONE/E-MAIL DIRECTORY including DSS workers.
CT State Treasurer "Name it and claim it" site ctbiglist.com
Funeral Consumer Alliance of Connecticut Nonprofit group that surveys funeral homes and provides price information.  Order their funeral home survey.
Husky Health Click for eligibility criteria for all types of Medicaid: Husky A/B (children and caregivers; not asset-tested); C (aged, blind, disabled, asset-tested, but includes S05 for working disabled); and D (low-income adult 19-65 without dependent children). Link to manual of covered services for husky A,C,D. Remember that Husky B (for caregivers of children) has been limited.
Infoline We all know this but often forget. Has all kinds of information about subsidized housing etc.
MyplaceCT.org New website intended to be "user friendly" and a one-stop place to get information about all sorts of programs and resources. Of course the trouble with this is that it tends to have superficial information. For instance links to elderly housing bring up a google-maps linked 12-page list on 211.org (Infoline) with links to each place suggesting that a person would have to contact all of them one by one to find out if there were any openings.......
PLAN of Connecticut Nonprofit organization that will handle small special needs trusts and operates CT's only "pooled" trust under 42 USC sec. 1396p(d)(4)(c). Annual $100 membership for lawyers. They now have SOME of the essential pooled trust plan forms online; member attorneys can log in for the other forms.
Reverse Mortgage Info Low-interest Connecticut-funded CHFA reverse annuity mortgage website info -- has fees ($1,500) rate (7%) and instructions on applying. (Check AARP site for more on commercial mortgages) Try this link for a confidential calculator.
sharinglaw.net - disability HELPLINKS page has legal and non-legal links relating of interest to the disabled
SSATTY page has listing of private practitioners who handle Social Security claims and appeals
sharinglaw.net - elder Page with non-legal links to care providers and related services


NATIONAL ELDER LAW RESOURCES                                                                                               Return to Page Index
 (in alphabetical order)

AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons)  Alas, alas, the "mobile friendly" revolution has come to AARP. Well, a few old links seem to work; try this one on reverse mortgages. Still seems to have the report on caregivng in the US but forget about finding reverse mortgage info. If you want a calculator for reverse mortgages try THIS instead. There are public policy links to a fact sheet on Connecticut.
ABA Center for Professional Responsibility - Model Rules Although Connecticut's Rules of Professional Conduct have not yet been amended to reflect the most recent changes to the ABA rules, and so do not have the force of law, they are an important resource for Connecticut elder law attorneys.
ABA Commission on Law and Aging Includes listing of section publications; offers free e-mail subscriptions.  View articles from Bifocal, the Section's newsletter, order relevant Section publications, and download publications.
Administration on Aging (AoA): renamed Administration for Community Living The AoA funds caregiver support programs and many other programs for the elderly. The site includes links to local agencies, other resources, and compilations of general and statistical materials. The "Elder Care Locator" is here.
ACTEC American College of Trusts and Estates Counsel. No, this is not only for those who plan for the 8-figure estate set. Includes the highly-regarded ACTEC Commentaries on the ABA rules of professional conduct, a state-by-state index on death taxes, and more. You can buy a Quicken-compatible fiduciary accounting template, too
Americans with Disabilities Act site U.S. Dept. of Justice site, including technical assistance manuals.
Annuityshopper Now part of www.immediateannuities.com,this location has an immediate download of an annuity checklist and a no-contact location for getting a quick estimate of annuity costs. Commercial site - there are probably others.
Center for Medicare Advocacy  Includes information on Medicare, e-mail link to request the Center’s printed materials, a "quick screen" to identify potential Medicare coverage, articles on Medicare+Choice, and a useful chart of the various supplemental policy provisions and summary of gaps in coverage. Redesigned; the "hover buttons" mostly gone -- harder to nagvigate however.
Consumer Consortium on Assisted Living "Consumer-focused advocacy organization devoted to the needs and rights of assisted living residents." Previously sold a checklist for evaluating assisted living facilities; steps for evaluation can be found on older versions of the site such as this: And on an even older version of the site is a FREE useful checklist.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau The CFPB is actively looking into consumer protection when it comes to the contracts etc. regarding nursing homes. To file a complaint, contact Beverly Yang, Older Americans Policy Analyst, at (202) 384-4437 or via email or file a complaint at: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint or call 800-411-2372. Resources for seniors
Consumer Reports Periodic consumer information on nursing homes, long-term care insurance, etc. Clients often mention Consumer Reports articles.
Elderweb.com Labyrinthine and comprehensive site created by was created by CPA Karen Stevenson Brown, also a long-term care consultant. Look here when you can't find it. Includes "links to information on legal, financial, medical, and housing issues, as well as policy, research, and statistics."
End of Life Options pages Thanks to the wonders of the "Wayback machine," this useful article from Dickinson College is still available. Includes summaries of the perspectives from numerous different religions on artificial nutrition and hydration issues as well as medical and ethical discussions. No longer online at Dickinson -- perhaps being updated? we can hope.
Families USA Families USA offers free subscriptions to e-mail newsletters and policy alerts in four areas - Medicaid, managed care, children's health, and all health care issues.  Direct e-mail link to your congressperson to send messages on pending legislation.  A valuable site for those involved in advocacy.
Fedlaw site. Or see USA.gov This is now located in "The Center for Regulatory Effectiveness." Federal government site reference center. Links to the U. S. Supreme Court, all Federal Circuits, and many District Court opinions, etc.
FirstGov for Seniors
(formerly Access America for Seniors) (on USA.gov)		 No longer seems to exist!! WHAT HAPPENED? originally developed as a cooperative effort under the aegis of the National Partnership for Reinventing Government and maintained by the Social Security Administration, this site once provided access to government services and information covering a wide range of issues (from Social Security to travel tips).
Health Information & the Law A project of the George Washington University's Hirsh Health Law and Policy Program and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this appears to be a successro to the Health Privacy Project, where I once found the links for HIPAA (large PDF) and the HIPAA regulations although no longer linked from this site! (Also see the DHHS FAQ in Q&A format). State by state summaries: The site allows you to click on a state and then see summaries of the laws on various topics including e.g. health information privacy law.
Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Dept. Health and Human Services Lists the annual poverty guidelines used to measure eligibility for many programs.
U.S. Dept. Health and Human Services (www.hhs.gov) Links to recent "briefings" on Medicaid eligibility policies from DHHS Office of Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, April 2005; provided courtesy of Christine I Andrew, Esq., of the Connecticut Alzheimers Association.
H.E.L.P. Non-profit organization located in Southern California offers useful "consumer-oriented" pamphlets and newsletter items suitable for clients. Also includes "Your Way," a guide to help older adults and families communicate about medical treatment desires, values, etc.
HUD Information on Section 8 / elderly housing:   Housing Choice Voucher Program Guidebook with separate links to separate chapters in PDF, e.g. eligibility. Seems very vague as compared to 2013 manual that is also on the site. Links to current income limits.  Income limits (PDF) See: 24 C.F.R. Part 5 Subpart F (replacing prior regulations). Statutory authority: 42 U.S.C. 1437f. Page with updates: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/hcv
Insure.com Easy-to-read summaries of insurance laws in all 50 states, plus explanations of HIPAA, COBRA rights, etc., with ample links to local sources of information.
Longtermcare Link Consumer-oriented site that gives a comprehensive look at long-term care planning, from LTCI to Medicaid planning, with links to vendors of assisted living. Written by a CLU. Now owned by National Care Planning Council
Medicare.gov Includes "Nursing home compare" information page. This is also the place to find those elusive "provider manuals." You can order in print or download. Good hunting, what you are looking for is buried deep within. (See also the unaffiliated, nonprofit "member of the family" website that tries to summarize this information with a list of best and worst. I haven't listed it separately because I'm ambivalent about the accuracy from this kind of characterization.)
Medicare Rights Center National, not-for-profit organization located in New York City; site offers direct assistance for Medicare beneficiaries and on-line versions of brochures (some bilingual).  Site now has an excellent interactive guide through Medicare copays, deductibles, and coverage information.
National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) Includes fill-in form for members to sign up for participation in NAELA's unmoderated e-mail mailing list.  Whether or not members participate, they can review listserve archives through NAELA's members only page. Members are also entitled to a template-style website for $25/year, available to the public through the popular "Need an elder law attorney?" link. NAELA Bylaws now require members to subscribe to "aspirational standards." (PDF, reproduced on my site)
National Association of State Medicaid Directors Contains a map on which you click to find the "medicaid agency" website for each state, and other publications
National Citizens Coalition for Nursing Home Reform (NCCNHR), now "National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care" Nonprofit group that advocates for nursing home reform.  Site includes address/telephone information for ombudsmen in all 50 states.  Useful fact sheets such as the ones on quality care. No longer seems to offer Nursing Homes:  Getting Good Care There, but there are copies on Amazon. The old NCCNHR site HAD a really useful "advance directive" for quality care which yours truly has restored to you, courtesy of the wayback machine. Things like what music you want in your room if you are ill / dying, what irritates you, and so on.
National Council on Aging A national nonprofit advocacy group. Includes information about long-term care insurance, Medicare, Medicaid and Medigap insurance and a list of publications for sale.
National Health Law Project (NHeLP) now healthlaw.org "30 Years of Working for Justice in Health Care for Low Income People." Includes detailed analysis of current and proposed legislation.Offers a free e-mail subscriptions for publishing information on current issues. 
National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) represents hospice and palliative care programs and professionals in the United States. Includes advanced directives for all 50 states available for download, although annoyingly you have to provide name, email and address so it's not clear how you get the directives for other states. Advanced directive forms are copyright; "reproduction and distribution by an organization or organized group without the written permission of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization is expressly forbidden."
National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) National support organization for attorneys specializing in Social Security disability law. Includes basic information on the law and the organization. Purchase the "Listing of Impairments for Adults, Listing of Impairments for Children, and the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (Grids)." Some materials are available only to members. 
National Reverse Mortgage Lenders' Association Only reverse mortgage site I could find that has a confidential "calculator" of what can be obtained by a reverse mortgage without asking for name and phone. Even breaks out ALL the fees and costs. Site says: "NRMLA membership requires signing and adhering to a Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility that commits all members, whatever their role in the process, to performing their jobs with integrity and empathy. We encourage members to look at their presentation to consumers as if they are sitting on the other side of the kitchen table."
National Senior Citizens Law Center (NSCLC) (now Justice in Aging) NSCLC, now Justice in Aging, advocates nationwide on behalf of low-income elderly individuals and persons with disabilities.  Includes articles and legal documents on many of these topics.
Office of Disability, Aging and Long-Term Care Policy Component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  Includes numerous surveys, studies, and analysis on health care, Medicare, Medicaid, and Managed Care.
Savings Bonds (TreasuryDirect) Treasury Dept. site for determining current value of US savings bonds
Social Security Administration Includes Social Security Handbook, benefit calculator, entire Social Security Act, SSA forms, subscribe to a newsletter. See also "Understanding SSI."
trustsandestates.net Site of T&E lawyer Noel Ice -- contains Noel's unique and frank (!) commentaries on the retirement distribution regulations, hyperlinked -- invaluable. (Scroll down to the bottom of the page)
Veterans Administration Includes information on all benefits programs; download VA life insurance forms, Form 21-526 by which a single veteran can get an additional $90 excluded from applied income when on Medicaid; Form 21-534 for a widow.

since October 6, 2006


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