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When to Hire a Professional

How to know when you need an Elder Law Attorney, CPA, Aging Life Care Manager, or Licensed Fiduciary, and how to verify credentials.

Do this first

Never hire a general practice attorney for Medicaid planning or contested probate. Verify that the lawyer is an active member of NAELA or a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA).

Who to hire and when you need them

  1. Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA / NAELA Member)

    • Hire when: Medicaid planning within 5 years is needed; a beneficiary has special needs or disability; there is substantial real estate; or siblings are threatening litigation.
    • How to find: Look up members at naela.org (opens in a new tab).

  2. Aging Life Care Manager (Geriatric Care Manager)

    • Hire when: You live in another state and cannot manage daily doctors, facility tours, or home aide scheduling. Usually licensed nurses or social workers.
    • How to find: aginglifecare.org (opens in a new tab).

  3. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) / Tax Advisor

    • Hire when: Filing the decedent's final Form 1040, fiduciary income tax returns (Form 1041 for trusts/estates), or navigating step-up in basis on appreciated assets.

  4. Licensed Professional Fiduciary / Corporate Trustee

    • Hire when: No family member is qualified or willing to serve as executor, or when family distrust makes a neutral third party essential.

Sources

  • National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)
  • Aging Life Care Association

Last reviewed: September 28, 2026