Life, Legacy & Wealth - Navigating key decisions for you and your family

Probate costs Florida families real money. Attorney's fees alone run 3% of the estate, and the personal representative takes another 3%, meaning a $1 million estate loses $60,000 before a single beneficiary sees a cent. In this episode, Tom Moss lays out three strategies that keep assets out of probate entirely: revocable living trusts, Lady Bird deeds, and beneficiary designations. Tom explains why each tool fits certain situations and fails in others. A Lady Bird deed works well for a straightforward transfer to one healthy adult child. Add creditor issues, a disabled beneficiary, or siblings who don't get along, and a trust becomes the smarter call. If you have ever assumed your estate plan covers all the bases, this episode will tell you whether it actually does. In this episode, you will hear: Why probate costs Florida families up to 6% of the total estate value before any beneficiary collects anything Revocable living trusts, how they work, and why a poorly funded trust is just an expensive stack of paper Lady Bird deeds as a simple, low-cost option for straightforward property transfers, and when they fall short Beneficiary designations for bank accounts, investment accounts, IRAs, and insurance policies, and the hidden risks of getting them wrong Joint ownership with children and why it creates more problems than it solves How family dynamics, disabled beneficiaries, creditor issues, and out-of-country heirs all change the right strategy What an attorney intake process actually covers and why it determines which probate avoidance tools make the most sense Resources from this Episode https://sawyerandsawyerpa.com/probate/ Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

In this episode of Life, Legacy & Wealth, Cary Moss breaks down everything families need to know about Medicaid planning — before a crisis forces their hand. From the five-year lookback rule to irrevocable trusts, spousal refusal, and the caregiver child exception, Cary walks through the legal strategies available to Florida families who want to protect their assets and preserve their legacy without running afoul of Medicaid rules. Cary brings years of hands-on elder law experience to the conversation, offering practical guidance on what documents to gather, what questions to ask when hiring an elder law attorney, and what steps families can take right now — even if a nursing home is still years away. If there's one thing to take away from this episode, it's this: don't wait for a crisis to start planning. In this episode, you will hear: The five-year lookback rule and why timing is everything in Medicaid planning Legal strategies for protecting assets — including spousal refusal, annuities, and caregiver loans How irrevocable trusts can shield assets from Medicaid when set up well in advance The caregiver child exception and when a home can be transferred to an adult child What to do when a disqualifying transfer has already been made Key documents every family should have organized before applying for Medicaid Questions to ask before hiring a Florida elder law attorney Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

In this episode, Cary Moss breaks down one of the most misunderstood rules in Florida elder law — the five-year Medicaid lookback period. Families are constantly caught off guard by this rule, making costly mistakes like transferring assets to children or adding names to property deeds, only to discover these moves can trigger serious penalties when it comes time to apply for Medicaid. Cary walks through how penalty periods are calculated, which transfers are exempt, and how tools like personal care contracts can protect a family's assets while staying fully compliant. She also tackles tricky real-world scenarios — from grandparents paying college tuition to families compensating a child for in-home caregiving — and explains how proper documentation can mean the difference between approval and denial. Don't let a lack of planning cost your family everything — this episode could save you thousands. In this episode, you will hear: Why transferring assets to children or a spouse rarely works the way families expect How Medicaid calculates the penalty period for uncompensated transfers The difference between gifts that raise red flags and those that can be explained away Real exemptions families don't know about, including homestead property transfers How personal care contracts protect families who pay a child for in-home caregiving Why tithing, wedding gifts, and college tuition aren't automatically disqualifying The importance of affidavits in overcoming the presumption of Medicaid eligibility planning Resources from this Episode Sawyer Support: https://sawyerandsawyerpa.com/sawyer-support/ Medicaid Planning: https://sawyerandsawyerpa.com/long-term-care/ Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Choosing the right trustee is one of the most important — and most overlooked — decisions in estate planning. In this episode, attorney Tom Moss breaks down what families need to know before naming a trustee, from red flags that signal the wrong choice to the "desired behaviors" clauses that can reduce family conflict before it starts. Tom also tackles the co-trustee question, the case for corporate trustees, and why "keeping things equal" isn't always the right approach. Whether a trust is already in place or just getting started, this episode offers a practical roadmap for making one of the most consequential decisions a family will face. In this episode, you will hear: Why "keeping things equal" can actually breach the peace Red flags that disqualify a trustee before they even start How "desired behaviors" clauses give trustees clear guidance When co-trustees are a blessing — and when they're a disaster Individual vs. corporate trustee and how to decide Why naming a non-citizen trustee can trigger serious tax consequences The overlooked burden placed on trustees — and why availability matters as much as ability Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

Choosing the right trustee can protect a family's legacy—or create years of conflict. In this episode, Tom Moss breaks down what trustee selection really means and why it goes far beyond picking the child who is "good with money." He explains the true definition of a fiduciary, the legal duties involved in trust administration, and the emotional weight placed on someone asked to manage assets for siblings or loved ones. Tom walks through the practical differences between trustees and personal representatives, common family conflict triggers, co-trustee pitfalls, corporate trustee pros and cons, and Florida-specific considerations like annual accountings and U.S. citizenship requirements. If an estate plan is meant to preserve both wealth and relationships, this conversation offers a clear roadmap for doing both well. In this episode, you will hear: What a fiduciary really is and the legal duties of a trustee Trustee vs personal representative and why court oversight matters Common family conflicts when a sibling serves as trustee Family trustee versus corporate trustee pros and cons Annual accounting requirements and prudent investment standards in Florida Red flags in trustee selection including co-trustee pitfalls How clear trust guidelines can reduce emotional burden and future disputes Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

In today's episode of Life, Legacy & Wealth, we continue the conversation around Medicaid planning, nursing home costs, and asset protection—and the costly mistakes families often make when they try to navigate this process on their own. I'm joined again by elder law attorney Cary Moss, who shares real-world examples from her practice that show how well-intended decisions can create serious financial and legal problems if they're not done correctly. Cary breaks down common red flags, including gifting assets, adding children to accounts, misunderstanding special needs trusts, and relying on incorrect advice from friends or the internet. We also walk through a powerful success story that shows how proper planning can protect a spouse, preserve assets, and bring peace of mind during an incredibly stressful time. If you or your family are thinking about long-term care, Medicaid eligibility, or protecting what you've worked so hard to build, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. In this episode, you will hear: Costly Medicaid planning mistakes families make when acting without legal guidance Gifting assets and triggering Medicaid lookback penalties Why adding children to bank accounts or deeds can backfire financially and legally Misunderstandings around special needs trusts and age-based eligibility rules How proper Medicaid planning protects a well spouse and preserves assets The critical role of durable powers of attorney and enhanced powers Coordinating Medicaid planning with long-term estate and legacy goals Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

In this episode, we dive into the real cost of nursing home care and why Medicaid planning is a critical tool for asset protection for seniors and their families. Attorney Cary Moss explains why nursing home costs often come as a shock, clarifies the difference between Medicare and Medicaid, and breaks down how long-term care is actually paid for. The conversation focuses on practical strategies to protect savings, homes, and retirement assets while still qualifying for Medicaid benefits. Cary shares common myths about Medicaid planning, outlines what assets are considered exempt versus countable, and walks through both pre-planning and crisis planning options designed to preserve family wealth and reduce financial stress. If you're worried about long-term care expenses, this episode offers clear, actionable guidance to help protect your assets and plan with confidence. In this episode, you will hear: Medicare vs Medicaid and what actually covers long-term care The true cost of nursing home care and why it surprises most families Medicaid planning basics for seniors facing nursing home costs Asset protection strategies to preserve savings, homes, and retirement accounts Common myths about Medicaid and qualifying with higher assets Pre-planning vs crisis planning for long-term care and Medicaid eligibility Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Tom Moss breaks down the real differences between wills and trusts in Florida, with a clear focus on probate, privacy, cost, and long-term control. He explains how probate works, why trusts can help families avoid court oversight, and how proper planning can speed up asset distribution while protecting sensitive family and financial details. Early in the discussion, Tom Moss draws on his experience in estate planning to clarify common misconceptions and highlight when a trust can offer meaningful advantages over a simple will. The conversation covers trust funding, execution mistakes, trustee selection, and how small wording choices can create major legal consequences. Tom also shares practical guidance on updating estate plans after moving to Florida, navigating homestead laws, and avoiding costly errors from DIY or outdated documents. This is a concise, practical episode for anyone deciding between a will and a trust or revisiting their estate plan. In this episode, you will hear: How probate works in Florida and why it can be costly and public Key differences between wills and trusts for control, speed, and privacy Why properly funding a trust is essential to avoid probate Common mistakes in DIY estate planning and improper document execution How trustee selection can make or break an estate plan Florida homestead laws and risks when moving from another state When and why to revisit and update estate planning documents Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Wills and trusts are often treated like simple checkboxes, but the reality is far more nuanced. In this episode of Life, Legacy & Wealth, Tom Moss breaks down how Florida residents should really think about wills versus trusts, and why the "right" choice depends on far more than estate size. Tom explains how incapacity planning, beneficiary structure, asset types, and family dynamics all factor into building an effective plan. Tom brings decades of practical experience helping families navigate probate, estate administration, and long-term planning. He cuts through common myths, explains why a will does not avoid probate, when trusts are overused, and how real-world complications like out-of-state property, special needs beneficiaries, or strained family relationships can change everything. If you've ever wondered whether you truly need a will, a trust, or something more tailored, this conversation offers clear, grounded guidance to help you plan with confidence. In this episode, you will hear: Why a will does not avoid probate in Florida How trusts work during life and after death Common myths about wills, trusts, and probate Key factors that determine whether a trust is necessary How beneficiary designations can help or create problems Planning for incapacity, not just death Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

Estate administration can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions, family dynamics, and legal deadlines collide. In this episode of Life, Legacy, and Wealth, we break down how probate really works behind the scenes and what families need to know to avoid unnecessary conflict, delays, and personal liability. From setting clear expectations with beneficiaries to understanding why timelines matter, this conversation offers a practical roadmap for keeping an estate on track while protecting everyone involved. You'll hear a clear, plain-language walkthrough of the probate process, including early distributions, creditor claims, court deadlines, and the common mistakes that can put a personal representative at risk. The episode also explores real-world challenges like out-of-state beneficiaries, safeguarding estate assets, and how proactive communication and modern tools can prevent small issues from becoming major disputes. If you're serving as a personal representative or want to understand what really happens during probate, this episode will help you move forward with clarity and confidence. In this episode, you will hear: Preventing conflict among beneficiaries through clear communication and expectation-setting Probate timelines and why missing deadlines can create serious legal consequences Early distributions risks and when partial distributions may be appropriate Creditor notices, claims, and common mistakes that expose estates to liability Personal representative red flags that can trigger court intervention Managing out-of-state beneficiaries using technology and proactive follow-up Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

Unlock the secrets to a seamless estate settlement in Florida with Cary Moss. Gain valuable insights into what makes an estate settlement process smooth versus complex, and learn how to avoid common pitfalls. From the importance of organized documentation to the dynamics among beneficiaries and personal representatives, Cary shares her wealth of knowledge with real-life examples that illuminate both the triumphs and challenges in the world of probate. We'll navigate the intricate maze of Florida's homestead laws and the unique hurdles that out-of-state personal representatives often encounter. Discover strategies to manage the 90-day creditor period that can impact property transfers, and understand the critical role of consensus among heirs, especially in intestate estates or when a will is contested. Cary also demystifies the concept of summary administration, helping you identify when it's advantageous and when formal administration becomes a necessity. In this episode, you will hear: Navigating Florida's complex estate settlement process Importance of organized documentation and positive beneficiary dynamics for smooth estate transitions Unique challenges of Florida's homestead laws and the 90-day creditor period for out-of-state personal representatives Summary administration vs. formal administration: when each is advantageous Strategies for managing estate costs and distributing property fairly among heirs Innovative real estate solutions and comprehensive support systems for seamless estate sales Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Unlock the secrets to more efficient estate planning and fortify your family's legacy with our latest episode of Life, Legacy, and Wealth. Once again facilitated by producer, Danny Ozment, Tom will help you navigate the often-confusing world of probate in Florida, especially when dealing with unique scenarios like out-of-state heirs or vacation properties. We dissect the complexity of contested wills and highlight why securing prompt legal representation is crucial in adversarial probate cases.  Skip the headaches of probate with strategic insights into asset management. We share effective methods to ensure a seamless transfer of assets upon death, including the use of trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership with survivorship rights. Whether you're planning for a child with special needs or managing complex family dynamics, personalized estate planning is key. Our discussions also cover practical tips for adult children assisting aging parents, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an updated asset inventory and fostering transparent communication to smooth the estate administration process. In this episode, you will hear: Mastering Florida probate for efficient estate planning and family legacy preservation Navigating unique probate scenarios, including out-of-state heirs and vacation properties Strategies to avoid probate through asset ownership, beneficiary designations, and trusts Importance of personalized estate planning for complex family dynamics and special needs Tips for adult children assisting aging parents in estate administration Choosing the right probate attorney and assessing legal expertise Resources from this Episode The Florida Bar: www.floridabar.org  Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Unlock the secrets of mastering Florida's probate process and breeze through estate management with confidence. We demystify the probate process in Orlando, providing essential guidance for personal representatives to safeguard the deceased's home and locate vital estate planning documents. Our episode clears up common misconceptions—such as the mistaken belief that a will negates the need for probate or that creditors can be ignored—ensuring you're fully prepared to face the realities of estate management. The detailed discussion takes you through the labyrinth of Florida's probate system, a court-supervised procedure designed to manage and distribute a deceased person's estate. We break down the roles and responsibilities of personal representatives and probate attorneys, from inventorying assets and notifying creditors to the critical task of asset distribution. Learn about the timelines and distinctions between formal and summary administration, and gain insights into navigating potential complications, such as dealing with multiple creditors and understanding Florida's unique homestead property laws. In this episode, you will hear: Mastering Florida's probate process and estate management strategies Initial steps for executors, including safeguarding the deceased's home and locating estate planning documents Clarification of probate misconceptions, like the necessity of probate even with a will Roles and responsibilities of personal representatives and probate attorneys, from inventorying assets to notifying creditors Differences between formal and summary administration in Florida's probate system Navigating financial challenges: handling debts, tax obligations, and prioritizing creditor payments Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.  

In this inaugural episode of Life, Legacy, and Wealth, hosts Cary Moss and Tom Moss of Sawyer & Sawyer invite listeners to the table for an intimate and informative conversation about the roots of their law firm, their personal journeys into law, and how they've built a practice centered on compassion and legacy. Cary shares how her parents founded the firm and inspired her path into law, while Tom recounts his transition from a blue-collar upbringing to becoming an attorney after a chance meeting with another student that led to taking the LSAT. Together, they reflect on how combining their strengths—Cary's social worker mindset and Tom's business and estate planning perspective—has shaped the firm into a family-oriented practice. Listeners will gain insight into how Sawyer & Sawyer supports clients through every stage of life, from estate planning and guardianship to Medicaid and veterans' benefits. Cary and Tom explain their detailed process for new clients, emphasizing efficiency, transparency, and human connection. They also share the importance of ongoing relationships through their "Sawyer Support" program, designed to help clients maintain and update their estate plans over time. By the end, you'll feel like part of the Sawyer & Sawyer family—armed with practical knowledge about protecting your estate and inspired by the legacy that drives their work. In this episode, you will hear: Tom Moss's unexpected journey from a blue-collar background to law, inspired by a friend's suggestion to take the LSAT. The origins and evolution of Sawyer & Sawyer, a family-run law firm with deep roots in the medical field. How Cary and Tom's different strengths complement the firm's mission Why client relationships and clear communication matter most Emphasis on creating a positive client experience with humor and genuine connections at the forefront. How ongoing support keeps your plan effective as life changes Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Welcome to **Life, Legacy & Wealth**, the podcast that demystifies elder law and empowers you to secure your family's future. Whether you're planning your estate, navigating the complexities of Medicaid, or managing the affairs of a loved one who passed away without a will, we're here to guide you every step of the way.   In each episode, we tackle the questions our clients ask most, like: "How much should I pay for estate planning documents?" "What happens if my loved one died without a will?" and "What can I do if I make too much for Medicaid but can't afford a nursing home?"   We'll also share stories of heartbreak, triumph, and solutions that could save families from losing their life savings to long-term care expenses. Whether you're facing probate, trust administration, guardianship issues, or simply want to plan for the unexpected, this podcast is your trusted resource.   Let's protect your legacy, together.