A properly drafted Special Needs Trust protects a beneficiary’s eligibility for vital government benefits while enabling funds to supplement care, education, housing, and enrichment activities. This approach reduces the risk of disqualification from programs like Medicaid, while empowering families to plan for long-term security and peace of mind.
A coordinated approach provides clear governance, appoints a trusted manager, and ensures transparent recordkeeping, reducing disputes and delays during crucial decision-making moments.
We bring clear communication, practical guidance, and a collaborative approach to ensure plans fit your circumstances. Our focus is on building reliable, compliant documents that support families now and long into the future.
We offer periodic reviews, updates as family circumstances change, and guidance on future care strategies and governance.
A Special Needs Trust is designed to supplement, not replace, government benefits. It allows for additional funds to cover care, recreation, therapy, and essential services while preserving eligibility for programs like Medicaid. If care needs evolve, the trust terms can be adjusted to maintain alignment with goals.
Anyone who relies on means-tested benefits or anticipates future care needs should consider a Special Needs Trust. Parents of children with disabilities, adults with disabilities, and families planning for guardianship and long-term care can benefit from a tailored trust structure.
A properly drafted Special Needs Trust typically preserves eligibility for many government programs, but specific rules apply. We help you understand how distributions and asset levels interact with Medicaid and SSI in Maryland to minimize risk.
A trustee can be a family member, a trusted friend, or a professional entity. The key is selecting someone who understands fiduciary duties, maintains clear records, and acts in the beneficiary’s best interests.
A first-party trust is funded by the beneficiary’s own assets, while a third-party trust is funded by another person. Both types are designed to preserve benefits, but funding sources and implications differ.
A pooled trust is managed by a nonprofit organization that pools funds from multiple beneficiaries. It offers professional administration and cost efficiencies while preserving eligibility and providing tailored distributions.
Typically, funding comes from cash, savings, or assets that won’t jeopardize benefits. We examine all options to optimize the balance between protection, growth, and continued eligibility.
Regular reviews every few years or when family or program rules change help ensure documents stay aligned with needs, tax considerations, and program requirements.
Yes. Depending on the trust terms and state law, amendments or revocation may be possible. We explain options, timelines, and steps required to implement any changes.
If benefits rules change, we revisit funding, distributions, and governance. An updated plan helps maintain eligibility while continuing to address evolving care needs.
