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Most estate planning attorneys go into practice to make a difference—to help families protect what matters most. But somewhere between client meetings, court filings, marketing, staff management, and billing, the dream can get buried under the daily grind.

That’s where Lawyers With Purpose (LWP) comes in.

LWP isn’t just another coaching program or software platform. It’s a complete ecosystem designed to help estate planning, asset protection, and Medicaid planning attorneys build profitable, sustainable, client-focused firms, without burning out.

From “Practicing Law” to Building a Business

Law school teaches you the law. It doesn’t teach you how to run a business, lead a team, or create systems that allow your firm to grow beyond you. LWP fills that gap.

With LWP, you get access to step-by-step frameworks that show you how to deliver consistent, high-value services, how to price with confidence, how to measure your firm’s performance, and how to build a client experience that sets you apart. It’s not theory—it’s a proven path built by attorneys, for attorneys.

Tools That Power Real Results

LWP provides more than ideas. It equips you with the tools to put them into action.

Our proprietary STEPS™ software helps you generate legally sound, fully customizable estate planning documents with precision. Our FLOWS™ systems give you repeatable workflows to streamline operations and delegate effectively. You also get access to Patented Medicaid qualification tools that simplify complex eligibility strategies and ensure your clients get the care they need—without losing everything they’ve worked for.

Plus, our iPUG® Trust gives you a powerful asset protection solution you can offer clients right away, creating immediate value for your firm.

Ongoing Coaching & Community Support

LWP isn’t a one-and-done training. It’s an ongoing partnership.

Our members receive live coaching, access to expert-led webinars, customizable marketing materials, and a vibrant community of attorneys who share openly and support one another’s growth. Whether you’re launching your practice or scaling to multiple locations, you’re never alone. You have expert mentors, practical tools, and a trusted sounding board at every stage.

Designed for Profitability and Balance

Perhaps the greatest value LWP offers is helping attorneys reclaim their time and peace of mind. With the right systems in place, your firm no longer depends on you doing everything. You can focus on high-level strategy, connect more meaningfully with clients, and even take time off, knowing your practice is running smoothly.

Your Firm. Your Way.

At the end of the day, LWP exists to help you build the law firm you imagined when you started, profitable, impactful, and aligned with your values.

If you’re ready to stop running a firm that runs you and start building one that fuels your purpose, LWP is your next step.

Request a practice assessment to identify your blind spots and achieve your goals here. 

At Lawyers With Purpose, we focus on more than just legal tools — we’re here to help estate planning attorneys turn their expertise into thriving, sustainable businesses. That means talking about systems, strategy, software, coaching… and yes, revenue.

We know that for some, talking about money can feel uncomfortable. But it shouldn’t. Building a profitable practice doesn’t mean compromising your values,  it means creating a business that supports your clients, your team, and your life. That’s why we encourage a mindset shift as part of the journey.

Our long-time members have embraced that shift,  and the results speak for themselves. They’ve built practices that are not only profitable, but purpose-driven.

We recently asked a few of them to share how LWP has shaped their growth. Their stories are honest, insightful, and full of encouragement for any attorney ready to make the leap.

Here’s what they had to say.

Real Impact. Real Results.

1. Mindset & Confidence

“I have developed a level of comfort and understanding that I will be successful… as long as I continue improving both my professional skills and the business practices LWP introduced me to.”

“Since joining LWP, my mindset has changed for the better. I know the ‘numbers’ of my business and focus on growing in an intentional manner.”

For many members, LWP was the shift from surviving to thriving — from hoping the practice works, to running it with clarity and confidence. That includes financial visibility, structured growth, and seeing possibility where there was once burnout or fear.

2. Systems That Stick

“The implementation of a real estate planning system has been huge. It’s given me confidence, consistency, and clarity.”

“LWP’s workflows and task management keep us on track so nothing falls through the cracks.”

Our tools don’t sit on the shelf. They’re put to work every day — from managing case flow to calendaring to document drafting — helping attorneys and their teams run like clockwork.

3. Coaching & Community

“The combination of coaching and support has helped me overcome self-limiting beliefs.”

“Being a solo attorney can be isolating. My coaching calls with Candy and Phil helped me grow a firm I never imagined I could build on my own.”

At LWP, members aren’t just getting advice — they’re getting partners. Coaches like Phil Miner, Candace Pollack, and Britt Shearin offer a sounding board, accountability, and strategies tailored to your goals.

4. Education That Goes Beyond the Basics

“The LMS system has been essential — the quick videos and Zoom calls helped me grow into a role no one at our firm had ever done before.”

“Training modules helped us onboard new team members faster and more consistently.”

From Medicaid to marketing, from workshops to workflows — our education platform and events like TAPER offer real-time, practical training that meets firms where they are.

5. Tools That Power Practice Growth

“The document drafting system is constantly updated with changes in the law. That’s a huge time-saver.”

“IPUG training helped me expand my planning toolbox and reach more affluent clients.”

Our STEPS™ software, document automation tools, and IPUG® training don’t just keep you compliant — they open the door to new opportunities and more profitable planning.

Want to join Lawyers With Purpose? 

Ready to build a law practice that’s profitable, sustainable, and aligned with your values? Join Lawyers With Purpose and get the coaching, tools, systems, and community support you need to grow with confidence. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale, we’re here to help you turn your legal expertise into a purpose-driven business. Let’s build it—together.

We actively address best practices and industry changes in the legal industry and turn them into opportunities for actionable automated or digital systems to help you grow your estate planning firm.

Tailored Support & Training For Our Members

Our Teach, Show, Do, Go™ strategy ensures you and your team receive the training and support needed to excel. We offer live, virtual, and digital training sessions to equip you with legal strategies, marketing tactics, and operational efficiencies. We go beyond coaching and lead generation by offering in-depth education on managing and measuring business performance. Our tools such as the revenue forecaster, KPI scorecards and business reports, are designed to help you understand your business goals and enhance every aspect of your practice to ensure you reach or exceed those revenue goals.

LWP Proven Path to Success:

1. Assessment: We start by understanding your current practices, identifying areas for improvement, and setting clear benchmarks.

2. Strategy: Together, we’ll develop a tailored business focused strategy to enhance your operations, marketing, & professional development.

3. Performance: Engage in regular growth calls and ongoing development to keep you and your firm on the path to success.

4. Community: Connect with a network of like-minded professionals through our ListServ, exclusive webinars, and the The Annual Practice Enhancement Retreat (TAPER). (Generous knowledge sharing)

5. Accountability: Get the necessary support with 1:1 and group sessions, real-time tracking of your progress, and actionable tips to keep you on track to take your business into a highly profitable level.

To get started, you may book a law firm assessment using this link. 

Estate planning is no longer a one-size-fits-all service. Clients today expect solutions that are as dynamic as their lives—and as protective as their legacy demands. That’s why the iPug® Protection Trust, offered exclusively through Lawyers With Purpose (LWP), should be in every estate planning attorney’s toolkit.

This isn’t just another trust. The iPug® is a flexible, client-centered, and protection-rich tool that solves the two most common client concerns in estate planning: How do I protect my assets without giving up control? And, How do I plan for long-term care without losing everything I’ve built?

Here’s why estate planning attorneys should not only understand the iPug® Trust — but actively offer it.

1. It Solves the Control vs. Protection Dilemma

Traditional irrevocable trusts require clients to hand over the reins. But that’s not what most clients want, especially business owners, real estate investors, or parents with blended families.

Since 2001, the iPug® Trust has broken the traditional planning mold by:

• Utilizing much simpler individual state common law than the complicated laws associated with the few states that offer specific Domestic Asset Protection Statutes
• Allowing the client to serve as their own trustee
  
• Letting clients control investments and distributions
  
• Permitting modification of beneficiaries and other key trust terms
  
• Delivering asset protection from creditors, lawsuits, and long-term care costs
  

Bottom line: Clients don’t have to choose between control and protection, they can have both, and have been getting it successfully since 2001.

2. It Meets a Growing Demand for Long-Term Care Planning

With nursing home costs skyrocketing and Medicaid eligibility rules tightening, your clients need proactive strategies to protect their assets before they face a care crisis.

The iPug® Trust:

• Starts the Medicaid look-back clock at funding
  
• Shields assets while complying with Medicaid transfer rules
  
• Enables clients to qualify for care while preserving wealth for the needs they may incur that Medicaid does not pay and to provide a legacy to their family
  

Offering the iPug® Trust means you’re helping clients prepare for the real financial risks of aging, without last-minute stress.

3. It’s Built for Flexibility and Customization

No two families are alike, and no estate plan should be, either. The iPug® Trust was designed for customization at every level, including:

• Income-only, control-only, or hybrid structures (MIT™, FIT®, KIT®)
  
• Spousal access and second marriage protections
  
• Post-death IRA sub-trusts
  
• Business interest shielding and high-risk asset separation
  
• Extended protection for multiple generations
  

Through LWP’s STEPS™ software, attorneys can create a tailored iPug® Trust in a fraction of the time of traditional drafting, all while delivering a more personalized client experience.

4. It’s a Market Differentiator for Your Practice

Many attorneys offer boilerplate living trusts or basic irrevocable strategies. Few offer a proprietary solution like iPug® that’s:

• Legally sound
  
• Medicaid-conscious
  
• Tax-efficient
  
• Fully customizable
  
• Client-controlled

By offering iPug®, you position yourself as a forward-thinking estate planner who delivers results, not just documents.

5. It Strengthens Lifetime and Legacy Planning

The iPug® Trust isn’t just about protecting today; it’s about securing tomorrow. With the ability to:

• Protect assets for special needs beneficiaries
  
• Prevent inheritance loss due to divorce or lawsuits
  
• Create multi-generational protection and control
  
• Preserve vacation homes and family businesses 
• You’re helping clients pass on more than wealth—you’re helping them pass on security and intention.

It’s Time to Add iPug® to Your Offerings

The iPug® Protection Trust represents a smarter, more client-centered approach to estate planning. It gives clients what they want, control, protection, flexibility—while giving you, the attorney, a tool that’s legally robust, easy to draft, and deeply valuable.

If you’re an estate planning attorney looking to offer more than “just a trust,” it’s time to integrate the iPug® into your practice. With LWP’s tools and training, you’ll be able to deliver customized solutions that grow your firm and protect your clients in ways traditional planning simply can’t.

Ready to learn more about offering the iPug® Trust?
Book a demo of LWP’s STEPS™ software or attend a live training session to see how this powerful trust fits seamlessly into your process.

When it comes to estate planning, clients want three things: protection, control, and flexibility. But traditional irrevocable trusts often ask them to sacrifice one or more of those. That’s where the iPug® Protection Trust changes the game, for both clients and attorneys.

The legal industry isn’t known for rapid innovation, but times are changing—and estate planning attorneys who don’t keep up risk losing clients to more tech-savvy competitors. 

From estate planning drafting software to client communication tools, technology is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity.

This article explores why staying current is critical for your practice and how to embrace change without disrupting your workflow.

Why Technology Matters More Than Ever In Estate Planning Law Firms

Client Expectations Have Changed

Generally speaking, clients are becoming more tech-savvy than ever before. Whether it’s streaming services, online shopping, or social media, people are accustomed to having information at their fingertips instantly. When they engage with an estate planning law firm, they expect a similar experience—efficient, transparent, and fast.

Clients now expect to be able to view documents and track their case progress online, without needing to wait for phone calls or in-person meetings. They want seamless communication, immediate access to their files, and the ability to get updates on their cases at the click of a button. If a firm is still using outdated processes—like manual drafting or relying on paper documents—it can create a disjointed, frustrating experience that could drive clients to seek out competitors who offer a smoother, more modern process.

Moreover, today’s clients have a broader understanding of technology thanks to their experiences with other industries, like e-commerce and entertainment. They’re familiar with software that lets them monitor the status of their order, make real-time adjustments, and get fast responses. When an estate planning firm fails to meet these expectations, it can quickly become a red flag for potential clients.

Using technology to meet these heightened expectations is essential to building trust and ensuring client satisfaction. For example, STEPS™, an advanced drafting and document management software, provides an efficient, cloud-based platform that not only streamlines operations but also enhances the overall client experience, ensuring that clients feel their needs are being met in a timely and organized manner.

Estate Planning Attorneys: Competitors Are Adopting Tech

As much as clients have come to expect modern technology, so too have your competitors. Law firms, especially in the estate planning space, are increasingly turning to technology to streamline their processes and enhance their service offerings. If your competitors are using advanced tools like document drafting software, automated workflows, and cloud-based systems, they can deliver a faster, more efficient service that appeals to today’s consumer.

This creates a major competitive advantage. Firms using technology can reduce the time spent on repetitive, manual tasks, giving them the ability to take on more clients without sacrificing quality. Additionally, the efficiency gains that come with technology translate to cost savings, allowing these firms to offer more competitive pricing without cutting into their bottom line.

If your firm isn’t adopting technology, you risk falling behind. In a world where clients are increasingly looking for firms that are quick, accessible, and efficient, adopting technology is crucial to staying competitive. STEPS™ helps you stay ahead of the curve by offering a cloud-based platform that integrates seamlessly with existing workflows, helping you stay organized and efficient while enhancing client satisfaction.

While you’re managing your clients, the software is working to populate necessary legal forms, reduce human error, and ensure compliance with the latest legal standards. This creates a more professional and reliable service, giving you an edge over firms that are still relying on outdated methods.

Efficiency Is Key to Profitability for Estate Planning Attorneys

In a competitive market, estate planning attorneys are under constant pressure to improve their profitability while maintaining high levels of client satisfaction. One of the easiest ways to achieve both is by embracing technology that can boost efficiency.

For example, manual drafting processes are often time-consuming, requiring attorneys and staff to spend significant hours inputting data, generating documents, and making adjustments for individual client needs. Even with the most skilled staff, this process is slow and prone to human error, which can lead to costly revisions and unhappy clients.

STEPS™ addresses this challenge by automating much of the drafting process. With features like a single-entry system, where data entered once populates all related documents, the software minimizes duplication and manual entry. Attorneys can draft a wide range of estate planning documents—wills, trusts, healthcare directives—faster, with fewer errors, and with less reliance on support staff. This results in better use of billable hours, reduced overhead, and improved productivity.

Moreover, automation frees up attorneys to focus on higher-value tasks, such as client consultations and strategic legal advice. Rather than spending countless hours drafting documents, they can spend more time discussing complex legal matters and refining the details of their clients’ estate plans. This enables the firm to increase its output without needing to hire additional staff, which keeps overhead costs lower and improves profitability.

Additionally, technology like STEPS™ helps law firms stay compliant with the constantly changing legal environment. As legal requirements evolve, having a system in place that updates automatically ensures that your firm is always operating within the latest guidelines, reducing the risk of costly legal mistakes.

The Risks of Falling Behind

1. Lost Clients
   Clients who perceive your firm as old-fashioned may turn to competitors who offer a more modern experience.
2. Burnout
   Without the right tools, your team will spend unnecessary time on repetitive tasks, leading to frustration and high turnover.
3. Reputational Damage
   In an industry where image matters, being seen as behind the times can hurt your credibility.

How to Stay Ahead With The Right Software 

1. Invest in the Right Tools
   Start with software that addresses your biggest pain points. For most estate planning attorneys, drafting software like STEPS™ is a game-changer.
2. Embrace Cloud-Based Solutions
   Cloud-based tools allow for greater flexibility and collaboration, ensuring your team can work from anywhere.
3. Educate Your Team
   Technology is only effective if your team knows how to use it. Invest in training to ensure seamless adoption.

The importance of technology in estate planning law firms cannot be overstated. With evolving client expectations, increasing competition, and a need for greater efficiency and profitability, adopting advanced tools like STEPS™ is essential to staying competitive. By streamlining workflows, improving accuracy, and offering a modern, client-friendly experience, technology enables firms to grow while maintaining high standards of service. Law firms that resist adopting technology risk falling behind and losing out on clients to more innovative competitors. Now more than ever, embracing tech is not just an option—it’s an imperative for the future of estate planning law.

Change can be intimidating, but the cost of staying stagnant is far greater. By using modern tools and practices, estate planning attorneys can not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

When you’re ready to future-proof your practice? Discover how STEPS™ can help. Book a demo today

Estate planning attorneys often invest in drafting software to save time or improve accuracy. But there’s a bigger question that’s rarely discussed: Can drafting software actually increase your law firm revenue?

Spoiler: It can. But not in the ways you might think. In this article, we break down the surprising ways the right software can have a direct and measurable impact on your firm’s profitability.

The Traditional Revenue Model for Estate Planning Practices

For many estate planning firms, revenue is traditionally tied to two key factors: billable hours and the number of clients served. This model, though time-tested, is inherently limiting in a number of ways. Let’s break it down further:

1. Limited Hours in a Day:
   In a typical estate planning practice, attorneys are billed based on the hours they spend working on client cases. While this can work well when firms are small and manageable, the reality is that there are only so many hours in a day. Even with a steady stream of clients, the volume of work can quickly become overwhelming, especially if there are few attorneys handling all tasks. Once attorneys hit their maximum hours, that’s it—there’s no room for growth without either sacrificing quality or raising fees, which can alienate clients.
2. Burnout:
   One of the most pressing issues in the traditional model is burnout. For both attorneys and their staff, constantly managing client expectations, drafting documents, and ensuring everything is perfect while juggling multiple cases is taxing. Over time, the pressure can take a toll on morale, leading to staff turnover, reduced productivity, and a decline in the quality of service. Attorneys themselves often work long hours to meet billable targets, resulting in an unsustainable work-life balance. This burnout not only harms the well-being of staff but can also negatively affect client relationships.
3. Scaling Challenges:
   Scaling a practice under the traditional model can be incredibly costly. To grow the firm and handle more clients, additional attorneys, paralegals, or administrative staff need to be hired. This comes with a significant investment in salaries, benefits, and training, as well as office space and technology infrastructure. For smaller firms, such upfront costs can be daunting and may create a barrier to growth. More importantly, the more people you add, the more complex the management becomes, and the risk of losing the personal touch and client satisfaction increases.

Estate Planning Drafting Software Offers a New Approach

This is where drafting software, particularly a solution like STEPS™, introduces a transformative approach. By automating many aspects of the drafting process, STEPS™ allows estate planning firms to significantly increase productivity without the need for additional resources. Here’s how:

1. More Efficiency with Less Effort:
   With STEPS™, attorneys no longer have to spend hours on repetitive tasks like entering client data across multiple documents or manually calculating complex legal provisions. The software’s single-entry system allows client information to be entered once and automatically populated across all relevant documents. This drastically cuts down on the time spent drafting, allowing attorneys to handle more cases with the same resources. As a result, firms can increase their client volume without overloading their staff or pushing attorneys to the brink of burnout.
2. Fewer Errors, Better Quality:
   One of the significant challenges in the traditional revenue model is the risk of errors, which can be costly in estate planning. With STEPS™, automated workflows help ensure accuracy, reducing the risk of mistakes that can lead to rework or worse—legal complications. This leads to higher-quality documents, better client satisfaction, and fewer costly revisions. As attorneys can be confident in the accuracy of their drafts, they can focus on higher-level strategic work, like client relationships and business development.
3. Scaling Without Significant Investment:
   As firms grow, their need for additional people and resources grows exponentially in a traditional setup. However, with drafting software, firms can scale much more efficiently. Rather than hiring multiple new employees, a firm can handle more clients and more complex cases without significantly increasing overhead. The automation in STEPS™ reduces the need for large support teams, while still allowing firms to serve a larger client base. This cost-effective scalability makes it possible to increase revenue without the heavy financial burden that typically comes with hiring new staff and expanding office operations.

How Estate Planning Software Drives Revenue Growth

1. Time Savings Equals More Clients
   Automation doesn’t just reduce drafting time; it frees up hours that can be spent onboarding new clients. A process that once took hours or days can now be completed in a fraction of the time, allowing attorneys to handle higher caseloads without sacrificing quality.
2. Higher Per-Client Revenue
   Drafting software like STEPS™ allows attorneys to offer more sophisticated and customized plans. This not only justifies higher fees but also builds client loyalty, leading to repeat business and referrals.
3. Reduced Overhead Costs
   With features like single-entry systems and automated workflows, firms can reduce administrative overhead. Less time spent on manual tasks means smaller teams can handle larger caseloads.

The Hidden Revenue Drivers For Estate Planning Law Firms

1. Improved Client Retention
   Happy clients stick around—and they tell their friends. Drafting software ensures consistent, high-quality output, leading to greater client satisfaction.
2. Enhanced Reputation
   Using cutting-edge tools signals to clients that your firm is innovative and efficient. This can set you apart from competitors and justify premium pricing.

The Case for Investment

Let’s crunch some numbers.

• Suppose your firm handles 50 estate plans per year at an average fee of $5,000 each.
• With drafting software, you could increase efficiency by 30%, allowing you to take on 15 more cases annually.
• That’s an additional $75,000 in revenue—more than enough to cover the software investment.

STEPS™: The Key to Revenue Growth

STEPS™ isn’t just estate planning drafting software—it’s a revenue-generating powerhouse for estate planning attorneys. By streamlining workflows and reducing time spent on manual tasks, STEPS™ allows firms to handle more clients without increasing overhead. Its cutting-edge automation minimizes errors, enhancing client satisfaction and retention. Attorneys can also leverage its customization features to offer high-value, tailored plans that justify premium fees. With STEPS™, your firm isn’t just keeping up—it’s setting the standard for what modern estate planning should look like, all while driving measurable growth to your bottom line.

Consider estate planning software as a strategic investment that can transform your firm’s revenue model. By saving time, improving client satisfaction, and reducing costs, it allows attorneys to focus on what matters most: growing their business.

To learn more about how Lawyers With Purpose can help your law firm’s growth plans and profitability, contact us at info@lawyerswithpurpose.com or call (877) 299-0326.

Alternatively, you may book a demo of STEPS™ here. 

Walk into a room full of estate planning attorneys, and you’re bound to hear one heated topic of conversation: drafting software. From comparisons of templates to claims about automation, it’s clear this isn’t just a tool; it’s a battleground for productivity, efficiency, and reputation. But why is the debate so persistent, and what does it reveal about the future of estate planning?

In this article, we explore why drafting software is a hot topic, what it means for attorneys trying to remain competitive, and how to navigate the options to find what truly works for your practice.

Why Is Estate Planning Drafting Software Such a Big Deal?

1. The Heart of Your Workflow
   Drafting estate plans isn’t just a task—it’s the core of your practice. The quality and efficiency of your drafting process impact everything, from client satisfaction to compliance with legal standards.
2. The Perceived Silver Bullet
   Drafting software is often touted as the ultimate solution to inefficiencies, making it a beacon of hope for overwhelmed attorneys. But with so many options on the market, it’s hard to know which one delivers on its promises.
3. Competitive Edge
   For law firms, having the “best” software isn’t just about functionality—it’s a status symbol. Clients are increasingly tech-savvy and expect their legal advisors to use cutting-edge tools. Falling behind can mean losing clients to firms with flashier offerings.

The Estate Planning Software Debate: Features vs. Functionality

When estate planning attorneys talk drafting software, the conversation often boils down to two questions:

1. How many features does it have?
2. How well does it actually work?

Feature Overload
Some platforms promise a dizzying array of tools. While variety is appealing, too many features can overwhelm users and complicate workflows.

Who Uses It Matters

A key consideration when evaluating drafting software is understanding who will be using it most — attorneys or their staff. Many attorneys draft their own documents, but the true value of top-tier software lies in empowering paraprofessionals to handle drafting tasks while ensuring attorneys retain control through customizable templates. This enables a streamlined workflow where the software meets the attorney’s specific preferences and needs. With STEPS™, every drafting decision can be tailored, providing both attorneys and their teams with the tools they need to collaborate efficiently and deliver high-quality results.

Functionality Matters Most
At the end of the day, the best software is the one your team actually uses. Features like single-entry systems and seamless integration aren’t flashy, but they solve real problems by saving time and reducing errors.

The Real Cost of Choosing the Wrong Estate Planning Software

1. Wasted Time
   Difficult, clunky software can slow your team down instead of speeding them up. Every minute spent troubleshooting is a minute not spent with clients.
2. Frustrated Staff
   If your team finds the software unintuitive, they’ll resist using it. This leads to inconsistent adoption and a return to manual processes.
3. Lost Clients
   Clients want efficient, error-free service. Poor drafting processes can lead to mistakes, delays, and a damaged reputation.

What Should Attorneys Look For In Estate Planning Software?

1. Cloud-Based Flexibility
   Remote access is no longer optional. Attorneys need the ability to draft, review, and update plans from anywhere.
2. Automation That Actually Works
   Look for tools that streamline, rather than complicate, your workflow—like single-entry systems that populate data across all documents.
3. Customization
   No two clients are the same. Your software should allow you to tailor documents to meet their unique needs.

When it comes to estate planning drafting software, we think STEPS™ stands out as the undisputed leader. We’ve done our research and know what is out there in the market. Designed specifically for estate planning attorneys, STEPS™ combines the precision of advanced automation with the flexibility to meet every client’s unique needs. Its single-entry system ensures that data entered once is automatically populated across all documents, reducing errors and saving time. With tools that handle everything from standard estate plans to complex Medicaid qualification strategies, STEPS™ offers unmatched versatility. Unlike clunky, overcomplicated systems, STEPS™ is intuitive and user-friendly, empowering attorneys to focus on what matters most: their clients.

The debate over drafting software isn’t going away anytime soon. But instead of focusing on which platform has the most bells and whistles, attorneys should consider what will truly improve their workflow, client satisfaction, and bottom line.

Book a demo for STEPS™ and see how it can easily fit into your existing workflow.

Long-term care is a pressing concern for many clients of estate planning attorneys, elder law practitioners, and financial advisors. With the rising costs of care and the aging Baby Boomer population, the importance of Medicaid as a financial safety net cannot be overstated. This comprehensive guide will equip estate planning professionals with the knowledge and tools to help their clients understand Medicaid eligibility for long-term care.

What Is Long-Term Care?

Long-term care encompasses a range of services designed to assist individuals who can no longer manage the essential activities of daily living. These activities include bathing, dressing, eating, and managing medication. Long-term care is often provided in specialized facilities like nursing homes or assisted living communities, staffed to meet residents’ needs around the clock.

For estate planning clients, long-term care is a significant consideration. According to Genworth Financial’s 2023 Cost of Care Survey, the national average cost for a private room in a nursing home exceeds $8,500 per month. With 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day until 2030, and seven out of ten of them requiring long-term care at some point, planning ahead is crucial to protecting financial security and family assets.

The Connection Between Long-Term Care and Estate Planning

The financial burden of long-term care can quickly deplete a client’s life savings, leaving little to no resources for their spouse or heirs. For clients whose wealth is tied up in retirement accounts, navigating long-term care costs becomes even more complex.

Qualified retirement assets are treated differently depending on the state, necessitating tailored strategies to manage these funds effectively. Without a well-crafted estate plan, clients risk losing their assets to care costs or facing heavy tax consequences when accessing retirement funds.

Medicaid: A Much-Needed Resource for Long-Term Care

Medicaid is a federal program managed at the state level. It provides essential financial support for nursing home care to those who meet its strict eligibility requirements. Unlike private-pay options or long-term care insurance—both of which are costly and often insufficient—Medicaid offers a viable solution for clients unable to afford the staggering expense of long-term care.

Without Medicaid, clients may exhaust their savings to cover care costs, leaving their spouse or family financially vulnerable. Medicaid ensures that those in need can access care without jeopardizing their family’s financial stability.

Medicaid Eligibility: The Basics

Medicaid eligibility hinges on two main factors: physical need and financial criteria.

1. Physical Need
   Applicants must demonstrate a need for skilled nursing care, usually through a physician’s assessment.
2. Financial Need
   Medicaid eligibility is determined by strict income and asset limits, which vary by state. Generally, an applicant must have minimal assets and limited income to qualify.

Managing Income and Assets for Medicaid Eligibility

Clients with excess income or assets face challenges qualifying for Medicaid. However, attorneys can employ various strategies to help:

• Spending Down Assets: Clients can use their resources on allowable expenses, such as home improvements or paying off debt, to meet Medicaid’s asset limits.
• Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts: Tools like the iPug® Trust allow clients to transfer assets into an irrevocable trust while retaining some control. This strategy protects assets from being counted toward Medicaid eligibility and shields them from creditors or misuse.
• Gifting Strategies: While outright gifts to family members may seem like a solution, they can trigger penalties during Medicaid’s five-year lookback period and subject the transferred assets to the creditors and predators of the individuals gifted to. Trusts like the iPug® offer a safer, more controlled alternative and permit the financial resources to family members to pay for care or other needs of the client not provided by Medicaid.
• Medicaid-Compliant Annuities: These financial products convert excess assets into income streams that meet Medicaid requirements.

The Medicaid Application Process

Applying for Medicaid is a complex and time-sensitive process. Attorneys should guide clients through these essential steps:

1. Assess Eligibility: Evaluate the client’s income, assets, and physical need for care.
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary paperwork, including proof of income, asset statements, and identification.
3. Apply Strategically: Time the application to coincide with asset transfers or other planning measures.
4. Monitor the Process: State agencies can take weeks or months to process applications. Follow up regularly to ensure timely approval.
5. Avoid Mistakes: Common pitfalls, such as incomplete documentation or missed deadlines, can lead to delays or denials.

Common Pitfalls in Medicaid Planning

Even minor missteps can derail a Medicaid application. Some common errors include:

• Failing to provide complete documentation.
• Misreporting income or assets due to misunderstanding eligibility rules.
• Missing deadlines for submitting additional information or appealing a denial.
• Overlooking the need for annual Medicaid recertification.

Attorneys play a vital role in helping clients avoid these pitfalls and ensure a smooth application process.

Use LWP’s STEPS™ Software for Medicaid Planning

Lawyers with Purpose (LWP) offers Strategic Trust and Estate Planning Software (STEPS™) to simplify the Medicaid planning process. STEPS™ provides patented, state-specific software that calculates clients eligibility and amount of assets that can be protected (even after admission to a nursing home), ensuring attorneys can craft effective plans tailored to their clients’ circumstances. Key features include:

1. Medicaid Qualification Worksheet
   This tool calculates when a client will qualify for Medicaid, determines penalty periods, and identifies the assets that can be protected.
2. Asset Protection Analysis Letter
   Written in plain language, this letter explains the value of Medicaid planning to clients and advisors, highlighting the financial benefits of early action.
3. Funding Roadmap
   A visual representation of the recommended plan, helping the attorney and client understand the steps required to protect their assets.
4. Ancillary Documents
   STEPS™ generates essential documents, such as promissory notes, caregiver agreements, and Qualified Income Trusts (QITs), streamlining the implementation of Medicaid plans.

Proactive Medicaid Planning Strategies

Early planning is the cornerstone of successful Medicaid strategies. By starting before the need for care arises, clients can preserve more assets and avoid rushed decisions. The iPug® Trust, for instance, allows clients to protect their wealth while retaining control and access in emergencies. This trust also prevents the risks associated with outright gifts, such as mismanagement or creditor claims.

Attorneys should educate clients about these options through workshops, one-on-one consultations, and easy-to-understand materials like the Asset Protection Analysis Letter.

The Pillars of iPug®

At its core, iPug® operates on three foundational principles:

1. Flexibility: Traditional trusts often lack adaptability, but iPug’s platform allows clients to adjust their plans as life circumstances evolve. Whether it’s updating beneficiaries, incorporating new assets, or adjusting to changing tax laws, iPug ensures your plan remains effective and relevant.
2. Accessibility: With an intuitive interface and guided workflows, iPug simplifies the complexities of asset protection. Attorneys and financial advisors can easily navigate the platform to create customized solutions for their clients, while clients gain a clearer understanding of their options.
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Asset protection strategies must align with the law to be effective. iPug® integrates compliance tools, helping professionals meet state and federal regulations, avoid pitfalls, and provide airtight solutions.

Incorporating the iPug® Trust and LWP’s STEPS™ software into your practice not only enhances client service but also creates substantial revenue opportunities. Medicaid planning can generate significant fees—often between $5,000 and $20,000 per case—while positioning your firm as a comprehensive, full-service provider of estate planning. Additionally, integrating these tools with your CRM streamlines workflows, improves client management, and supports scalable growth, making Medicaid planning a valuable revenue stream and a key differentiator for your firm.

Staying Current on Medicaid Regulations

Medicaid eligibility thresholds and rules are constantly changing state-wise but the federal law hasn’t changed for quite some time. Attorneys must stay informed to provide accurate advice. Tools like LWP’s STEPS™ software ensure attorneys have access to up-to-date information, allowing them to adapt client plans as regulations evolve.

Educating Clients on Long-Term Care Planning

Effective communication is key to helping clients understand the importance of Medicaid planning. By presenting personalized scenarios and tangible benefits, attorneys can motivate clients to take action. Workshops, newsletters, and one-on-one consultations are excellent ways to educate clients and their families.

Real-World Success Stories Using iPug® for Medicaid

LWP members have successfully used the iPug® Trust to help clients preserve their assets while qualifying for Medicaid. For example, one attorney worked with a couple who faced losing their life savings to nursing home costs. By implementing an iPug® Trust and a Medicaid-compliant annuity, they saved over $300,000 and secured Medicaid coverage within months.

These success stories underscore the importance of proactive planning and the value of tools like LWP’s STEPS™ software.

Medicaid planning is a much-needed component of estate planning for clients facing long-term care needs. By understanding Medicaid eligibility criteria, employing effective asset protection strategies, and leveraging tools like LWP’s STEPS™ software, attorneys can provide clients with peace of mind and financial security. Proactive planning not only preserves assets but also ensures clients receive the care they need without burdening their families.

Take Your Practice to the Next Level with LWP Membership

Struggling to hit your monthly revenue targets? Searching for a new revenue stream that sets your firm apart? If you’re not offering Medicaid planning as part of your services, you’re missing a crucial opportunity to better serve your clients and grow your practice.

Adding long-term care planning and Medicaid qualification to your estate planning practice positions you as a full-service firm. You’ll guide clients through every stage of their journey—from the initial estate plan to address illness or disability, Medicaid applications, and eventually probate or trust administration.

LWP membership is designed to support firms like yours. With tiers to meet your needs, the “Legal Foundations” membership offers access to our powerful Medicaid qualification tools, along with extensive education and document drafting solutions. For firms looking for even more robust resources, our advanced tiers include marketing support, business coaching, and additional tools to scale your practice.

Ready to explore the possibilities? Schedule a discovery call with our team today and learn how LWP can help you achieve your law firm business goals. Don’t just serve your clients—become indispensable to them. 

To learn more about how Lawyers With Purpose can help your law firm’s growth plans and profitability, contact us at info@lawyerswithpurpose.com or call (877) 299-0326.