Dent Coulson Elder Law

05/30/2026

Kaye and Steve were excited to attend the annual conference these past two days, and Kaye kicked things off by attending NAELA’s Advanced Elder Law Review course for an intensive and valuable two of study prior to the conference. They are back in the office next week with extra enthusiasm and new resources and knowledge to share.

What a way to kick off the 2026 NAELA Annual Conference! Thank you to our NAELA members, elder law attorneys, and vendors for making the Welcome Reception such a success. Here’s to two days of meaningful connections and exceptional elder law education ahead!

05/27/2026

Many families spend decades accumulating possessions, only for loved ones to later face the overwhelming task of sorting through everything after a loss.

In this Elder Law Minute, we discuss why simplifying your estate, giving meaningful items away while you’re alive, and focusing less on “stuff” can be one of the greatest gifts you leave your family.

Read the full blog for a thoughtful perspective on estate planning and family legacy.

Learn why simplifying your estate and giving away items now can save your family time, stress, and difficult cleanouts later.

05/20/2026

05/12/2026

What Is a Medicaid Penalty Period?

If someone applies for Medicaid long-term care after giving away money or assets, it can trigger what’s known as a penalty period — delaying eligibility for benefits.

In this Elder Law Minute, we explain how Illinois reviews transfers, what causes a penalty period, and when exceptions or exemptions may apply.

https://dentcoulsonelderlaw.com/medicaid-penalty-period-illinois/

Learn how a Medicaid Penalty Period Illinois review works, what causes penalties, and when exemptions or exceptions may apply.

05/11/2026

What is Elder Law?

Elder law is about more than preparing documents. It is about helping older adults and families plan for the future with clarity, protection, and peace of mind.

Planning ahead can help families navigate important decisions involving:
• Estate Planning
• Powers of Attorney
• Special Needs Planning
• Long-Term Care Planning
• Asset Protection
• Guardianship Planning

Having conversations and plans in place early can provide guidance and support during life’s unexpected moments.

During National Elder Law Month, Dent Coulson Elder Law is proud to support education and awareness surrounding the legal needs of older adults and their loved ones.

📞 (618) 632-7000
📞 (217) 330-5500
🌐 dentcoulsonelderlaw.com

05/08/2026

Awareness is protection.

As we wrap up this week’s focus on scam awareness during National Elder Law Month, we encourage older adults and families to stay informed, ask questions, and take time to verify suspicious calls or requests.

Scammers often rely on fear, urgency, and confusion. Education and awareness can help people recognize common warning signs and make informed decisions.

Dent Coulson Elder Law is proud to support conversations that help protect and empower older adults and their families through trusted legal guidance in estate planning, special needs planning, long-term care planning, and asset protection.

📞 (618) 632-7000
📞 (217) 330-5500
🌐 dentcoulsonelderlaw.com

05/06/2026

Scam calls often rely on fear, pressure, and urgency. Learn the warning signs older adults and families should know to help protect themselves from common phone scams during National Elder Law Month.

05/06/2026

Scam calls are designed to create fear, urgency, and confusion — especially for older adults.

During National Elder Law Month, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) is helping raise awareness about common scam tactics targeting seniors and their families.

Remember:
✔ Government agencies do not demand immediate payment
✔ They will not ask for gift cards or wire transfers
✔ They do not threaten arrest over the phone
✔ Legitimate agencies already have your information
✔ You are never obligated to stay on a suspicious call

If something feels pressured or urgent, stop, hang up, and verify independently before giving any information.

Awareness is one of the strongest forms of protection.

Dent Coulson Elder Law is committed to educating and supporting older adults and families through trusted legal guidance in areas including estate planning, special needs planning, long-term care planning, and asset protection.

📞 (618) 632-7000
📞 (217) 330-5500
🌐 dentcoulsonelderlaw.com

05/05/2026

For business owners, planning for the future means more than growth—it means protection. One of the most effective tools for ensuring continuity is a buy-sell agreement. Visit us online to learn more.

Learn why a buy-sell agreement is essential for business owners to protect assets, ensure continuity, and plan for the future.

05/05/2026

National Elder Law Month: Protecting Yourself Starts with Awareness

Scams targeting older adults continue to rise—and many are designed to look urgent, believable, and even familiar.

This National Elder Law Month, the focus is simple:
Know what to watch for and how to respond.

If you’re ever unsure about a call, message, or request:

• Stop the conversation
• Do not send money or personal information
• Verify information using official sources
• Speak with someone you trust before taking action

One of the most important things to remember:
Legitimate organizations will not pressure you to act immediately.

Taking a moment to pause and verify can make all the difference.

Protecting yourself—and your loved ones—starts with awareness and informed decision-making.

📞 National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11

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Dent Coulson Elder Law
Helping you plan, protect, and make confident decisions for the future.