Shepherd Elder Law Group

08/12/2026

🚨 A Simple Step That Could Make a Difference in an Emergency

Kansas families may want to know about Operation Red File, a free program from the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).

Operation Red File provides a red folder that is kept on the refrigerator and contains important medical information, medications, emergency contacts, and other critical documents. The information is designed to help first responders quickly access what they need in an emergency - especially when someone may be unable to communicate for themselves.

It’s a simple way to help make sure important information is available when it matters most. ❤️

Learn more and request a free Operation Red File:

In partnership with the Kansas Senior Medicare Patrol, Operation Red File was designed to help seniors keep their critical health information protected and accessible if needed in an emergency. The folder attaches to the refrigerator for easy access by first responders.

08/06/2026

Today, we're celebrating National Paralegal Day by recognizing three incredible members of our team: Michelle, Cheryl, and Laura.

Your knowledge, attention to detail, compassion, and dedication help make a difference for our clients every single day. Thank you for your hard work, your professionalism, and all that you do behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.

Happy National Paralegal Day! We appreciate you today and every day. 💙

08/05/2026

"We've saved enough. Our child will always be financially secure."

We hear this from loving parents more often than you might think.

But when it comes to a loved one with a disability, wealth alone isn't the plan.

Who will advocate for your child years from now?
Who will coordinate care?
Who will understand their routines, preferences, and goals?
Who will manage assets thoughtfully and compassionately over a lifetime?

The greatest gift you can leave isn't simply an inheritance. It's a comprehensive plan that protects both your loved one and the life you've envisioned for them.

Our newest post explores why special needs planning matters for every family, regardless of net worth.

➡️ Read the full article and discover why planning for the future is about so much more than money.
https://shepherdelderlaw.com/when-wealth-isnt-enough-why-every-family-with-a-loved-one-with-a-disability-needs-a-plan/

07/31/2026

As attorneys who work with individuals with disabilities and their families every day, we're always excited to share resources that make life a little easier. 💙

In this regard, we're thrilled to see the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities' new Kansas Benefits Guide - a free resource designed to help Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), their families, and caregivers better understand the benefits and services available to them. Kudos to everyone at KCDD on bringing this to fruition!

Whether you're looking for information about SSI, Medicaid, HCBS Waivers, ABLE Accounts, employment supports, or other important resources, this guide is an excellent place to begin.

At Shepherd Elder Law Group, we believe that informed families make empowered decisions. While every family's situation is unique, we're always here to help you understand your options and create a plan that protects your loved one's future.

👉 Explore the Kansas Benefits Guide:

Kansas Benefits Guide for Individuals with IDD A central guide to education, benefits, healthcare, employment, waivers, and daily living supports for Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.Get Started Below ➞ QUICK LINKS:Education & School SupportsSocial Securi...

07/30/2026

07/29/2026

Your child packed their laptop, bedding, and school supplies...but did they pack a Healthcare Power of Attorney?

Once your child turns 18, you can no longer automatically make medical or financial decisions for them...even if you are paying their tuition, health insurance, or living expenses.

Before they head off to college, make sure they're protected with the right legal documents.

Learn more at https://shepherdelderlaw.com/before-they-leave-for-college-the-estate-planning-documents-every-18-year-old-should-have/

📞 Questions? Shepherd Elder Law Group is here to help. Call us at 913.333.3533 (KS) or 816.979.3533 (MO).

07/16/2026

For many individuals with disabilities and their families, the answer is yes...with proper planning.

An ABLE Account allows eligible individuals to save for qualified disability expenses while helping preserve Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and other important public benefits. However, while an ABLE Account is an excellent planning tool, it is not a replacement for a properly drafted Special Needs Trust. When used together, these tools can help maximize financial security while protecting essential public benefits.

Our latest article explains how ABLE Accounts work, current contribution limits, SSI resource rules, and why coordinating an ABLE Account with a Special Needs Trust is an important part of a comprehensive special needs plan.

📖 Read the article to learn how thoughtful planning today can help protect benefits for tomorrow: https://shepherdelderlaw.com/how-able-accounts-work-with-supplemental-security-income-ssi/

📞 Have questions? The experienced attorneys at Shepherd Elder Law Group are here to help.

Kansas: 913.333.3533
Missouri: 816.979.3533

07/15/2026

A nursing home admission changes more than just where your loved one lives. It can affect your family's finances, future, and peace of mind. Questions about paying for long-term care, protecting the healthy spouse, qualifying for Medicaid, and preserving assets often arise quickly, making experienced legal guidance invaluable.

If your family is currently walking on these roads of aging and disability, Shepherd Elder Law Group is here to walk alongside you. We help married couples understand their options, protect what they've worked hard to build, and navigate the Medicaid process with confidence.

📞 Schedule a consultation today and let our experienced team help you navigate this challenging chapter with confidence. KS: 913.333.3533 MO: 816.979.3533

07/13/2026

We were happy to have our Community Education Liaison, Sara Albright, represent Shepherd Elder Law Group at last week's Senior Star at Wexford Place Senior Resource Fair in support of the Alzheimer's Association.

Events like these provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with seniors, caregivers, and community partners while sharing valuable resources and information about planning for the future. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to visit with Sara, and thank you to the organizers for hosting such a meaningful event in support of Alzheimer's awareness and research.

We're grateful to be part of a community that comes together to make a difference. 💜