RESOURCES
PROBATE/ ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
King County Law Library- Probate Information
http://kcll.org/probate-resources/
IRS Publication for Survivors, Personal Representatives
Publication 559 is designed to help those in charge (personal representatives) of the property (estate) of an individual who has died (decedent). It shows them how to complete and file federal income tax returns and explains their responsibility to pay any taxes due on behalf of the decedent.
https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-559
Social Security Survivor Benefits
Publication from Social Security explaining Survivor Benefits and how to apply.
GUARDIANSHIP
These websites have a great deal of information about the Guardianship process and alternatives to Guardianship. If you are considering seeking guardianship, I recommend you watch the Instructions for Guardians video and take the free 2 hour online class required for Guardians.
Guardianship Video- “Instructions for Guardians”
A 13-minute video explaining the responsibilities of a legal guardian in Washington Courts.
Lay Guardian Training
This is a free training required for lay guardians seeking to be appointed by the Court. The training takes 2 hours and you may complete it in segments over many sessions. If you are considering guardianship, take the training and print out your certificate for full guardianship of the estate and person.
Washington State Courts - Guardian Portal
Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council
Explains process of Guardianship in Washington
http://informingfamilies.org/topic/guardianship
Washington Courts
Explains Guardianship and Alternatives
http://www.courts.wa.gov/guardianportal
The ARC of Washington
Frequently Asked Questions about Guardianship
http://arcwa.org/library/guardianship
Handbook for Washington Seniors
Excellent reference manual on all aspects of estate planning, guardianship, and more. A helpful reference for seniors and anyone who wants to plan for the future.
https://www.legalvoice.org/handbook
SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING
Kitsap County Parent Coalition
KCPC provides information, resources, training, advocacy, and support for families caring for children and individuals who have developmental disabilities and live in Kitsap County.
https://kitsapcountyparentcoalition.org/
The ABLE National Resource Center
ABLE accounts were created in 2014 and allow some disabled individuals to save over $2000 (up to $100,000) without disqualifying the person for SSI and Medicaid. Website contains information about ABLE accounts available in each state and the ABLE program generally. Many webinars are available for free.
Washington's ABLE Program
https://www.washingtonstateable.com/
ABLE Account Plan Rules- WA Plan
https://www.washingtonstateable.com/assets/docs/washington-able-plan-disclosure.pdf
Social Security Administration (SSA) Guidance on ABLE
This document provides information on how funds in an ABLE account may interact with Social Security benefits (specifically Supplemental Security Income (SSI))
https://secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0501130740
ABLE Accounts Compared to Special Needs Trusts
This document provides a comparison of the advantages and limitations of ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts.
https://www.ablenrc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/ABLE-Accounts-Versus-Trusts.pdf
What You Need to Know About SSI When Turning 18
Article from SSA.gov that outlines qualifications at age 18 under adult disability rules, the Student Earned Income Exception (SEIE), ABLE accounts, and other opportunities.
Student Earned Income Exception (SEIE) Fact Sheet
Social security program for disabled students under the age of 22 that permits earnings of up to $1870/ month and $7550 per year without reducing SSI payments.
https://www.ablenrc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/2019-SEIE-Factsheet-ABLE.pdf
PROBATE/ ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
King County Law Library- Probate Information
http://kcll.org/probate-resources/
IRS Publication for Survivors, Personal Representatives
Publication 559 is designed to help those in charge (personal representatives) of the property (estate) of an individual who has died (decedent). It shows them how to complete and file federal income tax returns and explains their responsibility to pay any taxes due on behalf of the decedent.
https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-559
Social Security Survivor Benefits
Publication from Social Security explaining Survivor Benefits and how to apply.
SENIOR RESOURCES
Seniors and disabled individuals may qualify for reduced property taxes. The Assessor's Office has information on income limits for the program. Those making under $48,574 are eligible for reduction.
Senior and Disabled Exemption Changes 2020 (kitsapgov.com)
ELDER CARE
Washington State Community Living Connection
Learn about services and supports in your community for older adults, person with disabilities, caregivers, and persons with Alzheimer's and dementia.
FRAUD PREVENTION AND RESPONSE
AARP Fraud Watch Network
AARP provides access to information about identity theft, investment fraud, and the latest scams.
What to Know about Credit Freezes and Fraud Holds
Federal Trade Commission's website that explains about how to freeze credit, place a fraud hold, and more.
What To Know About Credit Freezes and Fraud Alerts | FTC Consumer Information
How to Limit Unwanted Calls and Emails
Federal Trade Commission's Website about how to limit junk mail, unwanted phone calls, and spam email.
Limiting Unwanted Calls & Emails | FTC Consumer Information
True Link VISA Card
Excellent tool to prevent exploitation and allow for independence. A pre-paid VISA card that is customizable for each family situation. Read more about how the card can be used and it's customizable settings and alerts for caregivers.
https://www.truelinkfinancial.com/card/older-adults/
VIDEO DEMONSTRATIONS: https://www.truelinkfinancial.com/other/resources/
ESTATE PLANNING
Handbook for Washington Seniors by Legal Voice
Excellent discussion about estate planning, medical coverage, and more
https://www.legalvoice.org/handbook
End of Life Washington
Information about the Washington Death with Dignity Act.
VETERAN'S BENEFITS
Senior Veteran's Service Alliance
This organization can assist with veteran benefits information and application.
https://www.veteransaidbenefit.org/index.html
Washington State Community Living Connection
Learn about services and supports in your community for older adults, person with disabilities, caregivers, and persons with Alzheimer's and dementia.
