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Educating at every step. Absolute Trust Talk is not your run of the mill general counsel show filled with legal jargon that doesn’t resonate. Through her 20+ years of practice, Absolute Trust Counsel managing attorney Kirsten Howe found herself working with clients who were confused and overwhelmed by the complexity of estate planning and saw a need to help clients with education and specific client-centered estate planning services. Now Kirsten is taking her expertise and experience to a ne ...
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061: Keys to a Successful Transfer of Wealth
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Unfortunately, many today see money as a solution to problems, but that is not always the case. In fact, wealth can be quite damaging to a family dynamic. Planning, in this instance, is vital. When family members have prepared and have learned how to work together, that’s when wealth and inheritance can be used as a tool to benefit a family for gen…
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060: Navigating the World of Senior Living Communities
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There are many great options these days when it comes to senior living communities and long-term care, but that's just it. There are hundreds of options. Finding the best solution for yourself or a loved one is a project and can be a daunting task for families. How do you truly know what the best choice is for elderly parents? In a new episode of A…
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059: Resolving Family Conflict Through Elder Mediation
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As family members age, we often find other members becoming involved in caregiving and decision-making. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to conflict as communication and relationships deteriorate in disagreement over an issue that impacts the older adult or the family as a whole. In these cases, it can be helpful to have a qualified third par…
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058: The Importance of Guardianship in Your Estate Plan
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If you have minor children, nominating a guardian for them in case of your death or incapacity is one of the most important reasons to do an estate plan. For many families, the choice is not easy, and they end up procrastinating. Think of it this way, do you want a judge, who may know nothing about your children or your family, deciding who your ch…
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057: Estate Tax Returns: Why You Might Want to File Anyway
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Because the federal estate tax exemption is so high, currently set to $11,700,000, many people believe their families won’t have to worry about filing a federal estate tax return (IRS Form 706) on their deaths. And while this may be true to a certain extent, there are also benefits that come with filing an estate tax return that could save your fam…
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056: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Senior Parents
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Unfortunately, there comes the point in life when the family home becomes a burden, whether that is emotionally, physically, or financially. And, usually, downsizing might seem like the way to go, but it doesn’t come without complications. There is so much more to moving and downsizing in the aging journey. It’s not just about buying and selling a …
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055: How Will Prop 19 Impact Your Estate Plan on February 16th
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Proposition 19 is a ballot measure passed in the November 2020 election in the state of California that significantly changes the property taxes on real estate inherited by children from their parents. And not in a good way. Under this proposition, a parent can only transfer the primary residence (either by gift, by inheritance or by sale) without …
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054: How to Use Reverse Mortgages as a Financial Tool
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In the past, reverse mortgages have had a negative connotation associated with them due to high fees and a lack of understanding of what they were and why they are being purchased. Nowadays, we see a rise in popularity among older adults and seniors who have equity in their homes and want to help supplement their income. In a new episode of Absolut…
When it comes to planning for a young family, whether it is financial or estate planning, it’s never too early to get started. Typically, young families share the same concerns and characteristics. It can be hard to navigate all the tools, information, and strategies that are out there. Many may put planning off or choose a route, not knowing if it…
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052: Estate and Financial Planning with Life Insurance
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When it comes to life insurance, most of us think of it as a death benefit when someone dies too soon. However, when used strategically, it can do so much more. In estate and retirement planning, it can be used as a complementary financial tool to help you meet specific goals or help secure financial protection. In a new episode of Absolute Trust T…
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051: Financial Planning for Women in Transition
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Taking over control of finances and your financial future can be overwhelming, especially for women who may be experiencing divorce, a spouse's death, or another major life event. However, it can be done smoothly and with peace of mind. In a new episode of Absolute Trust Talk LIVE, Kirsten welcomes guest Mary Ballin. Mary is a Certified Financial P…
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050: Phishing for More: What You Need to Know About the Latest COVID Scams
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Fraudulent schemes aren’t uncommon, especially among our senior populations. Since COVID began, we’ve seen a few interesting twists pop up. Scammers have become even more creative at seizing opportunities as they arise. That’s why it is vital to take the necessary steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your assets. In a new episode of Abso…
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049: The Elder Care Journey – Part 3: Emergency Preparedness
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It's easy to say, "when disaster strikes, be prepared," but how easy is it to move hundreds or thousands of long-term care residents when a fire or flood is bearing down on a facility? How do you know a family member will be safe and taken care of? The good news is that facilities are required to have an emergency plan in place, but we also need to…
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048: The Elder Care Journey – Part 2: Incapacity Planning
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Estate planning is an interesting topic, usually because most people immediately think we're talking about planning for their death. But what happens if you are unable to make decisions for yourself? Incapacity planning is one of the most critical planning strategies you can implement because things can be challenging for your family without it. In…
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047: The Elder Care Journey – Part 1: Different Types of Elder Care Explained
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The elder care journey is called a journey for a reason. It’s not linear, and many times people won’t know what will happen to them as they age. And while it is hard to predict, it’s not impossible to plan for, but it is essential to recognize that the type of care needed and how that care is paid for is a large part of the journey to help an older…
For any business owner who’s taken a PPP Loan, you know exactly how challenging the application process was. Now that you may be looking to get that loan forgiven, unfortunately, the forgiveness application isn’t any less challenging or confusing. On top of that, if you don’t apply correctly, you will have to pay all the money back. In a new episod…
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045: California Exit Strategy: Trends, Moving Planning, and More
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Reasons to move out of California, or if you’re thinking more local, out of the Bay Area, may range from a lower cost of living, lower taxes, less crowding, retirement, following family, or simply a change of pace. But it’s no secret that the extensive list of things that need to be done for moving can be overwhelming. How do you start? Where do yo…
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044: Estate Administration: Executor & Trustee Dos & Don’ts
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Being named as the executor or trustee of an estate is a big job. There are many tasks and responsibilities to take care of. And on top of that, it’s hard to imagine being able to make these important financial and legal decisions while grieving. A lot of times, people have no idea where to start or what to do. Without basic knowledge of the trust …
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043: Empowering the Disabled with Independence
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Individuals with special needs and their families face unique challenges when it comes to living, working, and even participating in their community, but it doesn’t mean that they can’t find independence. In a new episode of Absolute Trust Talk Live, Executive Director of East Bay Innovations, Tom Heinz joins Kirsten to discuss his organization and…
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042: Caregiving for a Loved One with Dementia: The Beginning
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When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's or Dementia, a spouse, partner, or family member is thrust into the caregiver role. They are just expected to know what to do and how to do it. There is no conversation about it. The caregiver's journey is lonely and challenging, taking on more and more responsibility as their loved fades away. You may…
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041: Special Needs Trusts: Don’t Let an Inheritance Blow Up Your Government Benefits
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Most parents of children with special needs understand how important it is to plan ahead. While there are many vital parts to this planning, a special needs trust should be at the top of the list. Utilizing a special needs trust will ensure that after the parents pass away, the child will not lose any government benefits due to inheritance. But wha…
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040: How to Avoid the Most Common Estate Planning Mistake
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Now that we've settled into somewhat of a new normal for the time being, people are thinking about getting things in order. There is still a sense of urgency, but many are taking the time to review their estate plans to make sure everything is in place, or are taking steps to put a new plan in place. In California, one of the key tools we use is a …
Are you looking for a solution to keep the stay at home senior in your life safe during the COVID-19 pandemic? In-home caregivers are considered frontline, essential personnel, and have been prepared to care for seniors in place since long before the worst of Coronavirus. "Our caregivers, that are working in these communities are staying in those c…
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038: COVID-19 + Elder Care: What You Need to Know
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It’s no secret that our most vulnerable population during this COVID-19 pandemic has been our seniors and older adults. They need extra protection and closer oversight because of the isolation they have been put in. The questions that remain include things like, “Who is there to make sure necessary care doesn’t fall through the cracks?” “How can I …
Are you a health care worker, or do you have a loved one who is? Then this episode is for you. Health care workers are very special, and we all owe them our gratitude for the work they do, but it's important, especially now, that they do not allow their instinct to help others get in the way of supporting themselves. Statistics are showing that the…
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036: How to Protect Against Coronavirus Scams
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Do You Have a Plan That Would Enable a Trusted Family Member to Step in to Protect You from Predators? It’s hard to believe we are living in such scary and uncertain times. Unfortunately, there are still those out there who are taking advantage of that for their financial benefit. The coronavirus has resulted in new twists on common scams that main…
In uncertain times, like those we’re facing now, we tend to go into panic mode, worrying about everything all at once. With so much on our minds, we don’t realize that there is still an opportunity to take control and be prepared. Have you thought about what would happen if you or a loved one is impacted by coronavirus? Will your loved ones be prot…
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034: The Dynamics of Dementia with Dr. Michelle Dhanak
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By Kirsten Howe
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033: Learning the Language: Long-Term Care Insurance
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By Kirsten Howe
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032: Extending Your Health Span with Dr. Nancy Rolnik
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By Kirsten Howe
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031: Do You Have a Firearm in Your Estate Plan?
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Many people are lawful owners of firearms. And if you are the lucky inheritor of a firearm in the state of California, it is your responsibility to ensure the transfer is handled legally – within the scope of state and federal laws. Interestingly enough, rules regarding such transfers largely depend on your relationship to the testator and the type…
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030: How Ombudsman Services Can Advocate for You, With Nicole Howell
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Aging is a natural part of life, and it is one that certainly deserves respect. All of our elders should be able to thrive throughout their later years. There is no one who believes in this philosophy more than our latest Absolute Trust Talk guest, Nicole Howell. Nicole is executive director of Ombudsman Services of Contra Costa and Solano Counties…
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029: Knowing Alzheimer's (Elder Advocacy Encore Edition)
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Join us for an encore edition of Absolute Trust Talk Episode #029 featuring Dori Sproul of the Alzheimer's Association of Northern California. Dori is a featured speaker at our upcoming Elder Advocacy & Law Boot Camp on September 18, 2019. She will be discussing effective communication strategies for those who suffer from dementia. Over 5 million p…
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028: Finding the Right Home Care Approach (Elder Advocacy Encore Edition)
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Join us for an encore edition of Absolute Trust Talk Episode #028 featuring elder care expert Francesca Vogel of Home Care Assistance. Home Care Assistance and Francesca will be joining us as platinum sponsors of our Elder Advocacy & Law Boot Camp on September 18, 2019. In episode 28 of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten welcomes Francesca Vogel, home ca…
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027: Is Medi-Cal for Me? Long-Term Care for Disabled People Over 65
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Are you worried that you will end up spending all of your savings on nursing home care? Yes, nursing home care does cost A LOT of money. And a high number of us will eventually be in a nursing home at some point. But it is possible, with proper planning, to become eligible for Medi-Cal if you are not already. In this episode, we will discuss long-t…
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026: Expert Advice on Geriatric Care with Linda Fodrini-Johnson
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Are you struggling with your aging or taking care of an older loved one? Aging can be overwhelming, but you and your loved ones don’t have to stop living life to the fullest, just because getting older throws you a curveball or presents challenges. If you have the right guidance, direction, navigation, and sound a…
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025: The Exploration of Legacy Planning and Charitable Giving with Michael Crvarich of the John Muir Health Foundation
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Absolute Trust Talk Host Kirsten Howe brings you a powerful new episode featuring Michael Crvarich, Vice President of Legacy Giving at the John Muir Health Foundation. Michael started his career as a public accountant specializing in high-end financial and estate tax planning at international accounting firms such as Ernst & Young and Arthur Anders…
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024: Conservatorships: Powerful Protective Proceedings
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In a new episode of Absolute Trust Talk, guest, Konstantine “Kosta” Demiris, joins Kirsten to discuss all things conservatorship. Kosta has a wealth of experience in all aspects of litigation. He has tried hundreds of cases involving trust, estate, probate, conservatorship, guardianship, elder abuse and fraud, real property and HOAs, family law, de…
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023: Knowing Alzheimer’s with Family Care Specialist Dori Sproul of the Alzheimer’s Association
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Over 5 million people all across our country have Alzheimer’s. The scary part is that many people don’t quite understand the disease and confuse it with other health issues or even normal signs of aging. Kirsten and guest Dori Sproul, family care specialist with the Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California, team up to discuss the disease and …
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022: Estate Organizing 101 with Professional Estate Organizer Meg Connell
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When a family is grieving the loss of a loved one or an older couple is ready to move on to the next chapter in their lives by downsizing their lot, it can be overwhelming. Where do you start when you have a whole lifetime of stuff? Professional estate organizer Meg Connell joins Absolute Trust Talk host Kirsten Howe in the studio for an all-new ep…
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021: Making Loans to an Irrevocable Trust Is Possible. Here’s How.
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Did you know it’s possible to make a loan to an irrevocable trust? Many people don’t know it is, and even though conventional lending firms might say they do it, they don’t truly understand and often force the borrower to take the loan out of the trust – negating the benefit. Jim O’Dea, a broker associate with Redwood Mortgage, a private money lend…
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020: Naturalization: Is the Process Worth It?
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The thoughts around becoming a naturalized citizen can be, well, daunting. Many wonder if it’s worth the time and effort. Absolute Trust Talk guest and immigration law expert Nadia Yakoob encourages all clients, and those wondering about the process, to take the time and make an effort because the benefits far outweigh taking no action at all. Nadi…
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019: Finding the Right Home Care Approach
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In episode 19 of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten welcomes Francesca Vogel, home care liaison for Home Care Assistance, to the show. Francesca works with seniors and their families to help navigate their specific care needs. Francesca is such a valuable asset in her field, not only because of her 24 years of health care experience but her vast knowledg…
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018: How Invested Are You? Portfolio Protection You Need to Know About Brokers and Advisors
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In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten welcomes attorney Bob Gonser to the show. Bob’s practice focuses on matters involving disputes between investors and their financial advisors. Bob typically works on a contingent fee basis and has successfully handled hundreds of cases for his clients whose investement accounts have been mismanaged re…
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017: Disability Income – How To Do It Right and Avoid The Many Pitfalls
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In episode 17 of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten welcomes Kantor & Kantor, LLP partner Michelle Roberts into the studio. Michelle has focused her entire career on helping claimants win disability claims under employer-provided disability plans. She is also a specialist in the act that governs disability benefits provided by employers, known as ERISA, …
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016: Behind the Scenes of Financial Planning for a Family With Special Needs
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In episode 16 of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten welcomes Morgan Stanley Senior Portfolio Manager Robert McLalan to the show. Bob has over 35 years of experience in the securities industry and has committed a large part of his practice to helping special needs families. His passion for special needs comes from his own personal experiences as a conserv…
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015: Kids in the Business: When Personal Estate Planning and Business Succession Planning Collide
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In episode 15 of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten welcomes financial planning and investment professional John O’Dea of Summit Financial Group to the show. John’s focus is the wealth accumulation and protection needs present for individuals who own and operate a business. He has over a decade of experience working to simplify investment, insurance, and…
Absolute Trust Talk welcomes consumer debt law expert Jen Lee into the studio to discuss essential tips, resources, and information people need to know about debt. Creator of workplace financial program Employees Are Assets™ and co-author of Preventing Credit Card Fraud A Complete Guide for Everyone from Merchants to Consumers, Jen focuses her prac…
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013: Deciphering International Tax Law with Jenny Lin
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Absolute Trust Talk welcomes Walnut Creek international tax law expert Jenny Lin to the show. Lin has been practicing tax law since obtaining her juris doctor degree in 2000 from U.C. Berkeley and is one of approximately 400 attorneys certified as a tax specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. In this episode, Kirste…
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012: Protecting Your Creative Expression – The Nature of Copyright
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In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten welcomes Walnut Creek copyright law expert Kelley Way into the studio. This Walnut Creek native, wanted to practice copyright law since she was in high school, as two of her biggest passions are books and music. She fell in love with copyright law after resolving a case for her first ever client – the…
