When you’re planning for long-term care, there’s one essential truth that can’t be overlooked: Medicaid is not the same in every state.
While Medicaid is a federal program, the way it works in practice can look very different depending on where you live—and those differences could mean the difference between protecting your life’s savings or spending them down to qualify for care.
At Axis Estate Planning, we guide Michigan families through the complex world of Medicaid planning with a deep understanding of both federal law and state-specific rules—because when it comes to protecting what matters most, one-size-fits-all simply won’t cut it.
Why the Rules Vary by State
Medicaid is funded jointly by the federal government and the states. While federal law sets the framework, each state administers its own version of the program, with flexibility in how certain rules are interpreted and applied.
That means your sibling in another state—or even your neighbor across the border—might be facing entirely different Medicaid eligibility rules than you are here in Michigan.
Examples of State-by-State Differences
Here are just a few ways that Medicaid rules can vary and why local legal guidance is essential:
- Retirement Accounts
Some states count IRAs and 401(k)s as available assets. Others don’t. - Planning Tools Like Annuities or Promissory Notes
What’s allowed in one state might be disallowed in another. - Spousal Protections
The amount a healthy spouse can retain when the other spouse needs care differs by state. - Homestead Exemptions
Whether or not your home remains protected when transferred into a trust can depend on how your state defines “exempt” property.
Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPTs): Powerful, But Not Universal
Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPTs) are an effective strategy to safeguard your home and savings from long-term care costs—but they must be tailored to your state’s rules to be effective.
For example:
- Trustee Rules: Some states restrict who can serve as trustee, especially if the person setting up the trust maintains control.
- Income Rights: Some states allow income to be retained without penalty; others may count it against eligibility.
- Use of the Home: In some states, you can retain the right to live in your home even if it’s placed in a trust. In others, that could disqualify you from benefits.
A trust that works beautifully in Florida may completely fail here in Michigan.
Why Local Legal Guidance Matters
With ongoing uncertainty about the future of Medicaid at the federal level—including potential cuts and shifts in funding—relying on a generic plan is risky.
The cost of long-term care is rising, and more families will need to rely on Medicaid to help cover those expenses. Planning now, with the right strategies for Michigan, is one of the most important financial decisions you can make.
Let’s Make Sure Your Plan Is Ready—When It Matters Most.
If you’re considering a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust or any long-term care planning strategy, don’t go it alone. Work with a trusted estate planning attorney who understands the nuances of Michigan law and how to protect your assets the right way.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
When planning your estate, it’s easy to focus on wills, trusts, and tax-saving strategies you can implement during life. But there’s another opportunity—one that’s often missed—that could save your family millions in estate taxes: portability.
At Axis Estate Planning, we believe thoughtful planning includes knowing all your options. And when it comes to married couples and estate tax, portability can make a big difference—but only if it’s used the right way.
What Is Portability?
Portability allows a surviving spouse to claim any unused portion of their deceased spouse’s federal estate tax exemption. In 2025, that exemption is $13.99 million per person. With portability, a married couple may shelter up to $27.98 million from federal estate tax.
But here’s the catch: portability isn’t automatic.
How It Works
To preserve the unused exemption:
- The estate of the first spouse to pass away must file Form 706, the federal estate tax return.
- Even if no estate tax is owed, the form must still be filed to make the portability election.
- The deadline is generally nine months from the date of death (extensions available).
Miss this window, and the unused exemption is lost forever.
Why Portability Matters Now
Under current law, the estate tax exemption is set to sunset at the end of 2025, dropping back to around $7 million per person (adjusted for inflation).
This means that families who elect portability now could preserve today’s higher exemption—even if it decreases in the future. In a time of financial uncertainty, this creates a valuable buffer for your family’s legacy.
Important Limitations
While portability is a helpful tool, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider these limitations:
- It’s a Post-Death Election
Portability can only be used after the death of a spouse—and must be elected in time. - No Help with GST Tax
Portability doesn’t apply to the generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax, so it won’t benefit grandchildren or later generations. - State Estate Taxes
Some states have their own estate tax systems and do not allow portability, which could create unexpected tax consequences—even if federal estate tax is avoided.
Is Portability Right for You?
While portability offers tremendous potential for tax savings, it should be viewed as one part of a broader estate plan. Other tools—like irrevocable trusts, lifetime gifting, and charitable giving—can often provide even greater flexibility and control.
With major changes to federal estate tax law looming, now is the time to review your estate plan and make sure you’re positioned to protect what matters most.
Let’s Make Sure Your Plan Is Ready—When It Matters Most.
Axis Estate Planning is here to guide you through every detail, from estate tax strategies to Medicaid planning and beyond. We take pride in offering trusted, thoughtful guidance that’s built around your goals.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
When someone we love moves into a nursing home or assisted living facility, we expect them to receive not just professional care—but dignity, safety, and compassion. Unfortunately, elder abuse remains a serious and often hidden issue in long-term care environments.
According to the World Health Organization, nearly 50% of long-term care facility staff in 2023 admitted to abusive or neglectful behavior. That number reflects only self-reported incidents—countless others go unnoticed, especially among residents who are unable to advocate for themselves.
At Axis Estate Planning, we’re committed to empowering families with the knowledge they need to protect the people who matter most. This guide will help you recognize the risk factors and warning signs of abuse and know what to do if you suspect something is wrong.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Certain systemic challenges in long-term care settings can make abuse more likely:
Understaffing and Poor Training
Overburdened or undertrained caregivers may struggle to meet residents’ needs—leading to neglect or even mistreatment.
Discrimination and Vulnerable Populations
Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those living with cognitive or mental health conditions often face a higher risk of abuse. Veterans and trauma survivors may be especially vulnerable to mistreatment due to misunderstandings or caregiver frustration.
Cognitive and Physical Impairments
Seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or mobility limitations may be unable to report abuse—or not be believed if they do. That’s why loved ones must remain attentive to behavioral or physical changes.
Types of Elder Abuse & Warning Signs
Physical Abuse
Use of force resulting in pain or injury—pushing, slapping, pinching, or improper restraint.
Signs include:
- Bruises, cuts, or broken bones
- Flinching or fear around staff
- Refusing physical contact
Sexual Abuse
Any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior.
Watch for:
- Bruising around private areas
- STIs or unexplained infections
- Withdrawal or anxiety
- Avoidance of certain caregivers
Emotional or Psychological Abuse
Includes threats, humiliation, or forced isolation.
Possible signs:
- Depression or mood swings
- Sudden fear or silence around staff
- Social withdrawal
Neglect
Failure to meet basic needs like hygiene, food, or medical care.
Look for:
- Weight loss or dehydration
- Unclean clothing or surroundings
- Bedsores, untreated conditions
- Missed medications
What to Do If You Suspect Abuse
- Observe and Document
Keep a log of visits, concerns, and any physical or behavioral changes. Photos can be helpful if taken respectfully. - Speak with Facility Leadership
Bring up your concerns with the administrator or care coordinator. Request written responses and a plan for resolution. - Report It
If there’s no improvement—or immediate risk—contact your state’s Adult Protective Services or the Long-Term Care Ombudsman. - Seek Legal Guidance
An elder law attorney can help you understand your rights and options. Legal action may be necessary if harm occurred due to negligence or abuse.
Trusted Resources
- Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116
- National Center on Elder Abuse: ncea.acl.gov
- The Consumer Voice: theconsumervoice.org
- Find Your Ombudsman: consumervoice.org/get_help
Final Thoughts
Every elder deserves to be treated with care and respect. If your instincts tell you something is wrong, don’t hesitate—speak up. You could be the voice that makes the difference.
At Axis Estate Planning, we’re here to help families navigate difficult decisions and advocate for the well-being of those they love.
Need legal guidance or concerned about a loved one’s care?
Let us help you take the next step.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
A Power of Attorney (POA) is one of the most essential legal tools in your estate planning toolkit. While wills and trusts prepare for the future, a POA is about readiness today—especially in situations where illness, injury, or distance prevents you from managing your own affairs.
At Axis Estate Planning, we guide individuals and families in making thoughtful, proactive decisions. Understanding whether a general or limited Power of Attorney is right for you can help protect your finances and ease the burden on your loved ones.
What Is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives someone you trust—your “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”—the authority to act on your behalf. This may include handling financial transactions, signing documents, or making legal decisions.
In this article, we focus on financial POAs, specifically the difference between general and limited authority.
General vs. Limited Power of Attorney
General Power of Attorney
A general POA provides broad authority. Your agent can manage nearly all financial affairs, including:
- Accessing and managing bank accounts
- Paying bills and handling investments
- Buying or selling property
- Filing taxes or applying for benefits
- Making financial gifts (if authorized)
This option is ideal for long-term support or if you need someone to help manage your day-to-day financial life. It’s commonly used in elder care planning, marital planning, or during extended travel or illness.
However, a general POA grants sweeping authority—so choosing a trustworthy agent and establishing clear boundaries is vital.
Limited (Specific) Power of Attorney
A limited POA grants authority for a specific purpose, time frame, or event. It might be used for:
- Allowing a CPA to speak to the IRS on your behalf
- Empowering a real estate agent to handle a closing
- Enabling a family member to pay bills during your recovery or time abroad
Limited POAs add structure and reassurance, especially when you want to control the scope of financial decisions being made in your name.
Ways to Tailor a Limited POA
- Specific Actions
Define exactly what the agent can do—such as accessing one bank account or signing one legal document. - Time Limits
Set start and end dates to align with known events, like surgery or overseas travel. - Triggering Events (Springing POAs)
These go into effect only when a condition is met—like a formal diagnosis of incapacity—helping you retain full control until needed.
Which One Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
- General POAs provide broad convenience but require deeper trust and oversight.
- Limited POAs offer more control and peace of mind for specific situations.
Your decision depends on your goals, comfort level, and the role your agent will play in your financial life.
Regardless of type, it’s crucial to revisit your POA periodically—especially after major life events like retirement, relocation, marriage, or divorce.
Stay Compliant With Michigan Law
Michigan adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney Act in 2024. This law affects how POAs must be written and what agents can and cannot do. Important updates include:
- Explicit language about gifting
- Enhanced fiduciary responsibilities
- New notice and disclosure requirements
An outdated or non-compliant POA could be rejected just when you need it most. We help ensure your documents reflect Michigan’s current laws—and your personal intentions.
Final Thought
A Power of Attorney is more than paperwork—it’s protection. It’s preparation. It’s peace of mind.
Whether you need full support or just a backup plan for travel or medical care, Axis Estate Planning is here to help you make the best choice for yourself and those you love.
Let’s make sure your plan is ready—when it matters most.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
At Axis Estate Planning, we recognize the emotional and practical challenges families face when confronting a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis. As of 2025, Alzheimer’s disease continues to be the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60% to 80% of all dementia cases worldwide. In the United States alone, an estimated 7.2 million adults aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia. That number is expected to nearly double—reaching 13.8 million by 2060—unless a medical breakthrough changes the course of this disease.
This increase is far more than a statistic. It represents a rising public health challenge that affects entire families, communities, and the way we prepare for the future.
Dementia: The Broader Category
Dementia is not a single disease—it is a term used to describe a wide range of cognitive impairments that interfere with daily life. These conditions impact memory, language, judgment, and reasoning. Dementia includes several disorders, such as:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
Symptoms can include confusion, forgetfulness, communication difficulties, and impaired decision-making. At Axis Estate Planning, we often help families understand what these symptoms may mean in both medical and legal contexts.
Alzheimer’s: A Leading Cause of Cognitive Decline
Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition. It is caused by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in and around brain cells, resulting in a gradual decline in memory, behavior, and physical function.
Certain populations are more affected than others:
- Older adults: Approximately 74% of people with Alzheimer’s are age 75 or older
- Women: Nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients are women
- Communities of color: Older Black Americans are about twice as likely, and older Hispanic Americans about 1.5 times as likely, to develop Alzheimer’s compared to older white Americans
These disparities make it even more critical to ensure early diagnosis, proper care access, and culturally aware legal support. At Axis Estate Planning, we are committed to helping all families navigate these sensitive challenges with care and respect.
The Impact on Caregivers
Dementia doesn’t just affect those diagnosed—it affects the caregivers who support them every day. Family members, often unpaid and untrained, carry the emotional and physical burden of care. While many individuals with dementia prefer to remain at home, caregiving can become increasingly demanding.
Thankfully, many senior living facilities now offer memory care units, which include:
- Secure environments tailored for dementia patients
- Structured, memory-enhancing activities
- Personalized care plans
- Support with daily living in a way that preserves dignity
Axis Estate Planning frequently advises clients on choosing facilities that align with a loved one’s care needs and long-term goals.
The Legal Side of Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Planning ahead is crucial when facing a progressive diagnosis like Alzheimer’s. As the condition worsens, individuals may lose the ability to make legal or financial decisions. Establishing foundational legal documents early—while your loved one is still capable of making decisions—ensures that their wishes are respected and their assets are protected.
Essential documents include:
- Powers of Attorney
- Healthcare Directives
- Living Wills
- Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts
These tools not only offer peace of mind but also reduce stress during future medical or legal emergencies. Axis Estate Planning works closely with families to craft plans that reflect each person’s values, care preferences, and financial realities.
Let Axis Estate Planning Help You Plan with Confidence
If you or someone you love is facing a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis, you don’t have to navigate the legal and care-related complexities alone. At Axis Estate Planning, we provide thoughtful, compassionate guidance to help families secure the support their loved ones need—while protecting their legacy and future.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
At Axis Estate Planning, we understand that selecting a nursing home for a loved one is one of the most emotional and significant decisions a family can face. Many begin their search by turning to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Five-Star Quality Rating System. While this system, introduced in 2008, was designed to simplify comparisons between facilities, it has notable limitations—especially as of 2025—that families must consider before relying on it exclusively.
Understanding the Five-Star Rating System
The CMS system provides each nursing home with an overall rating based on three primary components:
- Health inspections
- Staffing levels
- Quality measures (including resident care outcomes)
Although helpful at a glance, these ratings often fail to reflect the full reality of a facility’s performance and care quality.
Why the Star Rating Isn’t Enough
Self-Reported Data Can Be Misleading
Much of the data used to determine star ratings is self-reported by the nursing homes themselves. This includes:
- Staffing levels
- Incident reports
- Resident care metrics
Investigations have found that some facilities:
- Inflate nurse staffing numbers
- Underreport safety issues
- Misrepresent resident conditions and treatments
Inspection Standards Vary Widely
State agencies conduct health inspections, but the quality and consistency of these reviews can differ significantly across state lines. Concerns include:
- Inconsistent inspection protocols
- Advance notice given to facilities before inspections
- Serious violations not being reflected in the overall rating
As a result, a nursing home that appears excellent online may fall short of expectations upon closer inspection.
A Smarter Way to Choose a Nursing Home
At Axis Estate Planning, we advise families to take a more hands-on, investigative approach when evaluating long-term care options:
Tour the Facility
In-person visits allow you to see staff-resident interactions, cleanliness, and the overall environment firsthand.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
Engage with administrators, nurses, and caregivers. Discuss:
- Staff-to-resident ratios
- Emergency procedures
- Dementia care experience
- Employee training and retention
Speak with Current Residents and Their Families
Firsthand accounts from those currently living in or visiting the facility can offer invaluable insights.
Explore Additional Resources
In addition to the CMS website, consult:
- The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
- Long-term care ombudsman evaluations
- Trusted advisors like doctors and elder law attorneys
Use a Checklist
Bring along tools like the AARP Nursing Home Checklist to help structure your evaluation and avoid missing critical information.
Final Thoughts
The Five-Star Quality Rating System can serve as a helpful initial reference, but it should never be the sole basis for selecting a nursing home. With long-term care becoming a central part of aging in America, it’s essential to go beyond online scores and make decisions grounded in observation, research, and guidance.
If you’re facing long-term care decisions or need help protecting a loved one’s future, Axis Estate Planning is here to provide clarity, support, and trusted legal guidance every step of the way.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
Why Now Is the Time to Plan for What You’ve Built
Axis Estate Planning | Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
Over the next 20 years, the United States will experience the largest transfer of wealth in history. According to Cerulli Associates, Baby Boomers are expected to pass down more than $105 trillion in assets to their heirs—primarily Gen X and Millennials.
This moment presents a tremendous opportunity—but also a risk. Studies show that 70% of family wealth is lost by the second generation, and 90% disappears by the third. The culprit? A lack of planning.
At Axis Estate Planning, we help Michigan families make sure the legacy they’ve worked hard to build doesn’t get lost in transition. Because preserving generational wealth isn’t just about having savings or investments—it’s about intentionally protecting what matters most.
1. Don’t Rely on a Will Alone
A will is an important first step, but it does not protect your assets from probate. Probate is a public, often lengthy, and expensive process that can leave families tied up in legal delays when they should be healing and moving forward.
A Revocable Living Trust is one of the most effective ways to privately and efficiently transfer wealth. It keeps your estate out of court, maintains your privacy, and allows for clear incapacity planning should you become unable to manage your affairs during life.
2. Be Strategic About Beneficiaries and Taxes
Thanks to legislation like the SECURE Act, many beneficiaries must now withdraw inherited IRAs within 10 years, dramatically increasing their tax burden.
Our team at Axis Estate Planning works with clients to implement tax-efficient strategies, such as:
- Retirement Trusts
- Charitable Remainder Trusts
- Roth Conversions & Timing Tactics
These tools can reduce tax exposure and help your assets last longer across generations.
3. Prepare Your Heirs—Not Just Their Inheritance
One of the most overlooked aspects of estate planning is preparing the people, not just the plan.
Many families lose wealth not because of poor investments, but because heirs aren’t ready to manage it. An effective estate plan builds in education, structure, and protection through staged distributions and purpose-driven trusts. These can:
- Shield assets from divorce or lawsuits
- Protect beneficiaries from poor financial habits
- Align distributions with your values
This Is More Than a Transfer—It’s a Turning Point
The coming wealth transfer isn’t just a financial event—it’s a chance to shape your family’s future.
Whether you’re just starting the conversation or reviewing a plan that’s years old, now is the time to act. The steps you take today can secure your legacy for generations to come.
Let’s Talk About What Comes Next
At Axis Estate Planning, we guide families with thoughtful, future-focused solutions. We believe in building estate plans that work—not just on paper, but in real life.
Ready to start the conversation?
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
Axis Estate Planning | Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
At Axis Estate Planning, we’ve worked with countless families caught off guard by a sudden health crisis—often when a loved one needs immediate nursing home or in-home care. In these moments, decisions become urgent, options are limited, and missteps can be costly.
One of the most misunderstood and impactful rules in Medicaid eligibility is the five-year look-back period. It can determine whether your family receives the support they need—or is forced to spend down hard-earned assets.
What Is the Medicaid Look-Back Rule?
When you apply for long-term care Medicaid—the program that helps pay for skilled nursing or at-home support—the government reviews your financial history for the five years leading up to the application. This is known as the “look-back period.”
During this time frame, Medicaid checks for:
- Asset transfers
- Property sales below market value
- Large financial gifts
- Other transactions that appear to reduce your wealth intentionally
If any red flags are raised, Medicaid can impose a penalty period—a span of months or even years when you are ineligible for benefits. That delay can result in tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs, right when you need care the most.
Common Mistakes That Can Trigger Penalties
Michigan families often face challenges not because of bad intentions—but because of a lack of awareness about how Medicaid rules work. Some of the most common missteps we see include:
- Gifting money to children or grandchildren—even for special occasions
- Adding a loved one to a home title without full payment
- Selling property to family at a discounted rate
- Donating to charities close to the time of application
- Co-signing on a loan or helping with a down payment without proper documentation
While these actions may feel generous or routine, they can be seen as uncompensated transfers under Medicaid rules—and result in a penalty.
Why Proactive Planning Matters
At Axis Estate Planning, we believe the best time to plan is before a crisis strikes. By taking action early, families can access more legal strategies to protect assets, reduce penalties, and ensure care is covered when it’s needed most.
We help our clients implement proven tools such as:
- Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPTs)
- Caregiver Agreements that document in-home support
- Customized Spend-Down Plans that align with Medicaid guidelines
Even if you’re already inside the five-year window, we may still be able to help mitigate penalties and preserve resources. The earlier you begin, the more options you’ll have.
The Axis Estate Planning Approach
The Medicaid look-back rule can feel overwhelming—but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be. Our team offers families across Michigan clear, compassionate, and legally sound solutions to navigate the complexity of long-term care planning.
We’re here to help you take control of your future—with dignity, foresight, and protection for what matters most.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 251-1001
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
Trusted. Thoughtful. Here for what matters most.
Because the memories should outlast the mortgage.
For many families, a vacation home is more than a property—it’s the heart of generational memories. It’s where the kids learn to swim, where laughter lingers after sunset, and where family ties are deepened over shared summers.
At Axis Estate Planning, we understand that your legacy isn’t just about real estate—it’s about preserving the emotional richness of those cherished places for years to come.
The Challenge of Leaving It in a Will
Leaving your vacation home directly to your children through a will may sound simple—but simplicity can come at a cost. Without a clear structure, future heirs might face disagreements over maintenance, usage, or the decision to sell. In-laws, life changes, and generational differences can all lead to unintended conflict.
To protect your family’s harmony and ensure your home remains a source of joy—not stress—there are more thoughtful, long-lasting ways to plan.
1. Create a Family LLC
A Family Limited Liability Company (LLC) turns your vacation home into a jointly owned entity, helping establish clear guidelines across generations.
With a Family LLC, you can:
- Define who can use the property and when
- Share maintenance responsibilities fairly
- Establish rental income guidelines
- Clarify buy-out or transfer rules
- Build long-term decision-making protocols
This option also adds a layer of liability protection and may offer tax benefits if the home is rented seasonally.
2. Use a Trust to Customize Your Legacy
Trusts offer greater control and flexibility when planning for your vacation home. They can help you bypass probate, reduce tax burdens, and provide long-term clarity.
Common Trust Options in 2025:
Revocable Living Trust
- Retain full control during your lifetime
- Make changes as needed
- Avoid probate
- Create subtrusts for expenses and scheduling
Irrevocable Trust
- May reduce estate taxes or secure a step-up in basis
- Offers creditor protection
- Clearly outlines rules for use and maintenance
- Cannot easily be altered—requires strategic planning
Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT)
- Allows you to gift the home at a reduced tax value
- Retain use for a defined term
- Home transfers to heirs after term ends
2025 Insight: With estate tax laws likely to shift, families are taking action now to shield valuable properties from uncertainty.
Planning Now Means Peace Later
A vacation home without a plan can lead to probate delays, tax surprises, and even family rifts. But thoughtful planning now can:
- Protect relationships and avoid disputes
- Reduce tax burdens
- Ensure smooth transitions
- Keep the emotional legacy intact
Your Legacy Is More Than a House
It’s the smell of sunscreen and pine needles. It’s cannonballs off the dock and stories told by the fire. It’s the spirit of belonging, passed down through time.
At Axis Estate Planning, we help families create plans as enduring as their memories—because your legacy deserves to last.
📍 Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
📞 Call Us: (248) 251-1001
🔗 Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
At Axis Estate Planning, we believe that estate planning isn’t about age—it’s about empowerment. It’s about protecting the life you’re building and the people you love most, no matter where you are on your journey.
If you were born between 1981 and 1996, you’re a millennial—and whether you’re 25 or 40, chances are you’re celebrating important milestones: building a career, buying a home, growing your savings, or starting a family.
With these milestones comes the opportunity to put thoughtful protections in place.
Why Estate Planning Matters for Millennials
One of the most critical reasons to create an estate plan is to ensure your children and loved ones are cared for according to your wishes.
- For parents:
A last will and testament allows you to name a guardian for your minor children. Without it, the court could appoint someone to raise your children—someone who may not share your values, hopes, or dreams for their future. - For everyone:
Life is unpredictable. Documents like a healthcare power of attorney and a financial power of attorney ensure that if you’re ever seriously ill or injured, the people you trust most will be empowered to make decisions on your behalf. Without these protections, your loved ones may face difficult legal barriers at the worst possible time.
An Estate Plan Protects More Than You Think
An estate plan doesn’t just safeguard your children or medical wishes—it extends to many areas of your life, including:
- Protecting your growing assets
- Ensuring beloved pets are cared for
- Managing digital assets like social media accounts, cryptocurrencies, and online banking
- Leaving meaningful gifts or messages for the people who matter most
At its heart, estate planning is an act of love—giving peace of mind to your family and creating a future that reflects your values and vision.
Start Building Your Peace of Mind Today
No matter where life has taken you, it’s never too early—or too late—to create a plan that gives you confidence in the road ahead.
At Axis Estate Planning, we’re honored to walk alongside you with compassion, clarity, and expert guidance.
Take the first step today.
- Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
- Call Us: (248) 251-1001
- Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
