WNAV

12/12/2025

This Holiday Give Your Loved Ones the Gift of Peace of Mind

As we reach the end of the year, I find myself struggling with the age-old question, What am I going to get my parents for the holidays this year? Each year, this question becomes increasingly challenging. I know that as my parents have gotten older, they have gotten less interested in tangible things. At this point, they enjoy spending time with family more than they do any tangible personal gift. If that sounds like your parents or another loved one, then
maybe an estate plan is the best gift you could give this holiday season.
First, an estate plan is like a good wallet. It is convenient to have one; everyone needs one, but it can be challenging to justify the expense of one. By taking the financial aspect out of estate planning, you remove a large hump that prevents many people from procrastinating on getting their affairs in order.
Second, an estate plan helps minimize family conflicts after parents have passed. That said, I'm sure my mom finds comfort in knowing that she has an estate plan in place, which outlines her wishes and will be easy for my sister and me to respect without conflict.
Third, by creating an estate plan, you can help your parents leave a legacy for both their loved ones and the causes they care about. An estate plan can help them support not just their loved ones but also the charities, foundations, and other causes they care about after he passes.
Finally, the best gift you can give over the holidays is the assurance that loved ones will be taken care of. An estate plan can help establish trusts to protect family members with special needs from losing their benefits after inheriting large sums of money. It can also name guardians for minors and provide financial support for years to come through well-invested and managed trusts. It can hold on to funds until people are mature enough to handle them. It
can even help protect inheritance from creditors. A carefully drafted and invested estate plan can act as a guardian angel even after someone has passed.
If you do decide to give your parents, or another loved one, an estate plan, it is important to remember that it does not entitle you to make decisions on their behalf, but it by no means takes away from the gift you are leaving them. The gift allows them to settle their affairs in a way that brings them joy and peace, not just during the holidays.
If you are interested in gifting and estate planning for a loved one, contact Sinclair Prosser Gasior to set up a consultation.
Click Here for more information. www.spgasior.com/blog

12/10/2025

Santa Claus is coming to town! BUT, before that, Charlie Stinchcomb is bringing his very special Time Machine Christmas Show to WNAV on Saturday, Dec. 20th. (Charlie says you can listen, whether you've been naughty or nice).
WNAV 1430AM and on line at wnav.com. Stay tuned for the exact hours of this great show.

12/05/2025

Understanding the Maryland Medicaid Application:
Planned or Urgent We Can Help

If you or a loved one is considering applying for Medicaid in Maryland, it's important to understand the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and common pitfalls that can delay or derail the process. Medicaid can provide essential long-term care coverage, but navigating the application process requires careful planning and attention to detail—especially when dealing with complex financial and legal issues.
Whether you're planning well in advance or facing a nursing home crisis, legal guidance can make the difference between approval and denial—and help preserve your family's financial security. As an elder law and estate planning firm, we often guide clients through Maryland’s Medicaid application process. Here’s a helpful overview of what to expect and how to prepare.
What is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals, including seniors who require long-term care services in a nursing home or at home.
There are different Medicaid programs based on your needs, but most seniors seek coverage under Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS), which includes nursing facility care and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.

To qualify for Medicaid for long-term care in Maryland, applicants must meet stringent criteria, which currently includes the following:
1. Medical Necessity:
Must require a nursing facility level of care, as determined by a health assessment conducted by the state.
2. Income Limits:
The applicant’s income may not exceed the cost of care.
3. Asset Limits:
An individual may have no more than $2,500 in countable assets.
4. 5-year Look back:
The asset limit must meet IRS transfer guidelines over the previous 60 months or penalties may be applied.

What are “Countable Assets?”
Countable assets include:
Bank accounts
Retirement accounts
Stocks and bonds
Real estate other than a primary residence
Non-countable assets may include:
Primary residence
One vehicle
Personal belongings and household items
Prepaid funeral and burial plans
Applying for Medicaid in Maryland involves a thorough review of your financial history. Be prepared to provide:
Identification (photo ID, Social Security card)
Proof of residency
Proof of income (pay stubs, pension statements, Social Security award letters)
Bank statements (typically the past 60 months for long-term care)
Deeds, mortgage info, and tax assessments for real estate
Vehicle titles
Insurance policies (including life and burial policies)
Financial records for all investments and retirement accounts
Documentation of asset transfers or gifts within the last 5 years

Common Mistakes to Avoid
Gifting assets to family members without understanding the penalty implications.
Failing to disclose assets or income, intentionally or unintentionally.
Applying too late, especially when in crisis, risking months of uncovered care costs.
Not using legal strategies such as asset protection planning or establishing a Qualified Income Trust.

Why You Should Work with an Attorney
Applying for Medicaid in Maryland is not just filling out a form—it’s a legal and financial process that requires precision and foresight. Sinclair Prosser Gasior can help you prepare and review documentation, develop asset protection strategies, navigate the look-back period, avoid penalties and delays, and ensure compliance with complex Medicaid rules.
If you have questions or concerns about qualifying or applying for Medicaid coverage, contact the experienced estate planning attorneys at Sinclair Prosser Gasior by calling (410) 573-4818 to schedule an appointment. Sinclair Prosser Gasior Annapolis Headquarters office is now located at 183 Harry S. Truman Pkwy, Suite 104.
https://spgasior.com/blog/

11/27/2025

Wills Gone Wild; Strange and Funny Bequests from History
Your estate plan is a great place to show your personality and what’s important to you. While
estate planning is considered serious and necessary, you can still have fun with it, other
people sure have.
People have bequeathed their entire wardrobe, a collection of spoons, or even a lifetime
supply of chocolate. Someone else might leave a fortune to their beloved cat or dog while
including detailed instructions for care and luxury items. Yes, fido must wear his blue puffer
jacket if the weather drops below 50 degrees and sleep only on 600 thread count.
Other estate plans might include bizarre instructions that require eccentric tasks, like planting
a tree every year or throwing an annual party in your honor. The idea of specific bequests has
been around for a long time. Take for example Harry Houdini, who allocated funds to maintain
a series of hidden escape challenges in his home for future magicians or Benjamin Franklin
who left money to establish a fund for purchasing books for the public library with very specific
instruction on how they should be organized.
Whatever your wishes are, it is important to make them as clear as possible for your loved
ones. You want your wishes to be specific, unambiguous, and legally enforceable so that your
heirs and executors can carry them out exactly as you want. Include details like serial
numbers, locations, or descriptions for valuable items. Avoid vague language like “my
favorite” or “some of my money.” Legal terms and precise amounts help prevent
misunderstandings.
In addition to being clear and precise on your wishes you want to ensure that you are naming
executors who will be able to handle your quirky, complex, or highly specific instructions. You
will need to appoint someone who is capable, trustworthy, and willing to carry them out.
To discuss adding your specific bequests to your estate plan set up an appointment with the
attorneys at Sinclair Prosser Gasior.
Click Here for more information on your estate planning.....

Your estate plan is a great place to show your personality and what’s important to you. While estate planning is considered serious and necessary, you can

11/04/2025

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is partnering with Anne Arundel and Queen Anne’s counties to accommodate the Bay Bridge Run on Sunday, November 9. The run will be held on the eastbound span of the bridge.

As a result, the eastbound Bay Bridge will be closed to traffic Sunday, November 9, from approximately 12:01 a.m. to 2 p.m., weather permitting. The MDTA will have two-way traffic operations in place on the westbound span. One lane of traffic will operate in each direction on the westbound span, with the center lane closed to traffic. The center lane may open to traffic intermittently to help reduce westbound delays.

For information on the event, go to thebaybridgerun.com.

Along with the eastbound span closure, the following closures and detours will be in place on the Eastern Shore during the event:

The off-ramp from eastbound US 50 to MD 8 will be closed. A detour will be in place to direct motorists to the next exit at Thompson Creek Road. From there, motorists will travel westbound on MD 835 to the signal at MD 8.

The on-ramp from MD 8 to westbound US 50 will be closed. Traffic attempting to access westbound US 50 will be directed to MD 18 to the roundabout at Castle Marina Road and onto westbound US 50. Additionally, residents wishing to travel west on US 50 should approach the highway from either Duke Street or Castle Marina Road.

Motorists using the Bay Bridge on November 9 should expect significant delays throughout the day. To avoid delays, motorists are urged to travel prior to 6 a.m. or after 6 p.m.

For 24/7 Bay Bridge traffic information call 1-877-BAYSPAN (1-877-229-7726) or visit baybridge.com to see US 50 corridor traffic cameras on and approaching the Bay Bridge. For real-time updates on major incidents follow us on X at x.com/TheMDTA

The MDTA thanks its customers for their patience and cooperation.

Tips on using the MDTA's 8 toll facilities - 2 turnpikes, 2 tunnels and 4 bridges - to keep traffic moving safely! Account monitored M - F 8am - 4pm

10/24/2025

What Can We All Learn From Hulk Hogan’s Estate

Terry Gene Bollea, better known as WWE Superstar Hulk Hogan, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. Though he could have consulted experts in the field of estate planning, it seems Hulk Hogan faced several Estate planning challenges that many average people face.
First, Hogan's Estate is being handled through a public proceeding known as probate. While an estate is going through probate, the deceased's assets, the beneficiaries, potential legal challenges, and other unpleasant family matters can become part of the public record. For this reason, it has been widely reported by media outlets, such as US Weekly Magazine, that despite his long public career, at the time of his death, Hogan was worth around $5 million, with a majority of that being his intellectual property, valued at $4 million alone.
Second, Hogan chose to disinherit his daughter, Brooke E. Bollea. While parents may decide to disinherit their children for many reasons, it seems the decision to have Ms. Bollea removed may have been mutual. According to a report from People Magazine, Bollea and her father became estranged years before his death, and both gave conflicting reasons as to why their relationship fell apart.
Third, Hogan had to balance his desire to leave his entire Estate to his son, Nick Bollea, from his first marriage, with his third wife's, Sky Daily's, statutory interest in his Estate. While it is relatively easy to disinherit a child, sibling, or parent, most states have protections that prevent spouses from being completely disinherited. Spousal disinheritance can still be achieved through a pre- or post-nuptial agreement. A skilled estate planning attorney can help you draft a prenuptial agreement that will protect your interests and make sure that it is implemented in a way that will hold up after your passing.
At Sinclair, Prosser, Gasior, our talented Estate planning attorneys are equipped to take on the challenges of everything from protecting a superstar's assets to helping you plan for your future. If you would like to discuss estate planning in more detail, please attend one of our free estate planning seminars or schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.
CLICK HERE for More Information:

Terry Gene Bollea, better known as WWE Superstar Hulk Hogan, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. Though he could have consulted experts in the

10/15/2025

It's the Time Machine with Charlie Stinchcomb this Saturday, Oct. 18th from 9:30am until..... The best doowop, street corner harmony and rhythm and blues on the radio! Tune in and enjoy. 1430am and streaming on line. Click Listen Live on wnav.com or get there with Audacy, iHeart Radio or Tunein.

10/15/2025

How Do I Know When It’s Time to Start Estate Planning?
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to begin your estate planning journey, it likely already is.
Estate planning is often seen as a task for the wealthy or the elderly — but the truth is, everyone can benefit from having a plan in place. Many people delay this important step, unsure about when the right time is to start. Here are some key indicators to know when the time is right:
1. You’ve Experienced a Major Life Change
Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, purchasing property, or starting a business — these milestones impact your financial and personal situation and are clear signs that it’s time to establish or revise your estate plan to reflect your new circumstances.
2. You’ve Accumulated Substantial Assets
If you’ve built up savings, investments, real estate, or other valuable property, having a comprehensive estate plan ensures these assets are distributed according to your wishes. Without a plan, state laws dictate asset distribution and may not align with your intentions.
3. You Want to Protect Your Family and Loved Ones
Estate planning goes beyond asset distribution. It involves safeguarding your family’s future by appointing guardians for minor children, establishing trusts to avoid probate, and providing clear instructions to manage your estate and care for loved ones.
4. You Are Concerned About Taxes and Probate Costs
Proper estate planning can significantly reduce the tax burden and legal fees your estate may face, preserving more of your assets for your heirs. A tailored plan also helps your family avoid the costly and time-consuming probate process.
5. You Need to Establish Healthcare Directives and Powers of Attorney
Planning for incapacity is essential. With the right legal documents — including healthcare directives and durable powers of attorney — you can ensure trusted individuals are empowered to make healthcare and financial decisions on your behalf.
6. You Seek Peace of Mind
Ultimately, the greatest benefit of estate planning is peace of mind. Knowing that your wishes will be respected and your family protected allows you to focus on what truly matters.
Even if you already have a plan in place, we recommend reviewing your documents in the situations listed above, or at least every 3-5 years, to confirm your plan aligns with your intentions and complies with current laws.
For more information, please join us for an upcoming FREE seminar. If you have questions or concerns about your estate plan, contact the experienced estate planning attorneys at Sinclair Prosser Gasior by calling (410) 573-4818 to schedule an appointment. Sinclair Prosser Gasior Annapolis Headquarters office is now located at 183 Harry S. Truman Pkwy, Suite 104.
Click Here for more info...

If you’re wondering whether it’s time to begin your estate planning journey, it likely already is. Estate planning is often seen as a task for the wealthy

10/09/2025

Charlie is back! It's the Time Machine with Charlie Stinchcomb this Saturday, Oct. 11th from 8am until 11am. Yup it's earlier than normal to accommodate Navy Football and other programming, but it's worth getting up for! The best doowop, street corner harmony and rhythm and blues on the radio! Tune in and enjoy. 1430am and streaming on line. Click Listen Live on wnav.com or get there with Audacy, iHeart Radio or Tunein.

10/09/2025

Adoption and the Maryland Inheritance Tax
Maryland is the only state remaining where residents are subject to three death taxes: the Maryland estate tax, the federal estate tax, and the Maryland inheritance tax.
The Maryland inheritance tax is especially tricky. It is an antiquated law, and while there have been carve outs added over the years to exempt groups like lineal descendants and, most recently, registered domestic partners, it still is in effect.
If you pass away in Maryland and leave your assets to someone who is NOT exempt from inheritance tax, there will be a 10% tax due. The following beneficiaries are exempt from inheritance tax: spouse, children, grandchildren and other lineal descendants, parents and grandparents, siblings, and registered domestic partners.
This can be especially difficult if there are no liquid assets available to pay the tax.
There are not many ways around the inheritance tax. One simple caveat is that life insurance is exempt from inheritance tax – so, if you have a niece or nephew you want to leave something to, maybe consider making them a beneficiary of your life insurance.
Another, slightly more complicated, way around inheritance tax is adoption. Typically, this is adult adoption. It may be a good fit if, for example, you raised a child as your own, but they were never formally adopted.
If you are considering leaving assets to a beneficiary who would not be exempt under current Maryland laws, please come see us at Sinclair Prosser Gasior to discuss the implications and any potential solutions. Click Here for More Details -

https://spgasior.com/adoption-and-the-maryland-inheritance-tax/

For more information, please join us for an upcoming FREE seminar. If you have questions or concerns about your estate plan, contact the experienced estate planning attorneys at Sinclair Prosser Gasior by calling (410) 573-4818 to schedule an appointment.
Sinclair Prosser Gasior Annapolis Headquarters office is now located at 183 Harry S. Truman Pkwy, Suite 104.

Maryland is the only state remaining where residents are subject to three death taxes: the Maryland estate tax, the federal estate tax, and the Maryland

10/08/2025

Power of Attorney – How Vital Are They?

A power of attorney is a staple to have within a proper estate plan. Without them, there’s no telling who could be put in charge of your belongings and care in a time of incapacitation. The alternative, a court supervised guardianship proceeding, is an expensive and time-consuming procedure that is one to avoid whenever possible.
There are two main types of powers of attorney – health and financial.
A healthcare power of attorney allows someone to appoint an agent, or a list of potential agents, to work with healthcare professionals in order to maintain proper care for them when they may be incapacitated. This document can include specific details regarding who is to be appointed, when they would take over care, and important details as to their care that would otherwise not be known. Likely included with this document is something called an advance directive, otherwise known as a “living will”.
On the other hand, a financial power of attorney then allows someone to appoint an agent, or agents, to work with their property in their best interest, whether effective immediately or only upon disability.
When having both of these documents in place, you will be able to effectively avoid court involvement and ensure care for your person and property is exactly how you would want it to be.
To learn more, please join us for an upcoming FREE seminar. If you have questions or concerns about your estate plan, contact the experienced estate planning attorneys at Sinclair Prosser Gasior by calling (410) 573-4818 to schedule an appointment.
Sinclair Prosser Gasior Annapolis Headquarters office is now located at 183 Harry S. Truman Pkwy, Suite 104.
Click Here for More Information -

A power of attorney is a staple to have within a proper estate plan. Without them, there’s no telling who could be put in charge of your belongings and

09/30/2025

Does your family know about your hidden treasures?
Many of our clients have collections they are proud of. Some of those items may not look special, but hold a significant financial value.
We once had a client receive a painting from his grandmother with no supporting information. It wasn’t till later in his life, when he was doing his own estate planning, that he learned that the painting was worth upwards of a million dollars.
Some people may assume their family will know the value of their items, but that is not always the case. Even if you tell your loved ones about the value of your property, they may not remember. The best way you can pass on that information along with the possession is through detailed estate planning.
There are several ways this can be done. The most common way is through a specific bequest in either a Trust or a Will. This is the language that people most often associate with Wills and Estate planning. There are other tools that can be used such as a separate written instrument accompanying a Trust. Speaking with a licensed attorney who specializes in estate planning is the best way to select the proper tool for identifying and bequeathing your hidden treasures.
Proper Estate planning, with an attorney, can help your family identify your valuable items, let them know how you want them cared for, and make sure they are either sold for their fair value or passed on to their next owner. Without an estate plan, these diamonds in the rough may be hauled off in bulk trash collection or sold for far less than what they are worth at an estate sale.
When administering an Estate, it may be just as important that you hire a good attorney and appraisal service who can help you identify valuable items that may need to be reported to the Register of Wills or other Estate beneficiaries. By doing so, you will ensure that your loved one’s possessions are treated with the same care they gave them. I have heard horror stories about families who have hired companies to empty out their parent’s home for a quick sale with not taking the time to consider what was inside first.
At Sinclair, Prosser, Gasior we have a talented team of attorneys experienced in both estate planning and administration. If you would like to discuss estate planning or administration in more detail please attend a free estate planning seminar or schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.
Click Here for More Info...

Many of our clients have collections they are proud of. Some of those items may not look special, but hold a significant financial value. We once had a