Special Needs Trusts are essential for families in Severn, Maryland seeking to protect a loved one’s government benefits while preserving financial resources for daily living. Our team helps design, fund, and administer trusts that integrate with Medicaid, SSI, and long-term care planning to maintain eligibility.
A comprehensive approach reduces the risk of benefit disruption, ensures coordinated care, and creates a clear, adaptable roadmap for families navigating disability planning, guardianship, and financial management to support long-term security and quality of life.
Choosing us means partnering with a firm that prioritizes clarity, accessibility, and ongoing support. We translate complex laws into actionable steps, help prepare necessary documents, and coordinate with financial professionals, caregivers, and government programs to ensure a smooth, compliant planning experience.
We implement a schedule for periodic reviews and necessary amendments to keep the plan aligned with changes in law and family circumstances.
A Special Needs Trust is a legal tool designed to supplement, not replace, government benefits. It allows funds to be used for disability-related needs without disqualifying the beneficiary from programs like Medicaid or SSI. It is most beneficial for individuals with lifelong care needs in Severn, Maryland. Working with an experienced attorney helps ensure the trust is properly funded, administered, and aligned with eligibility rules while providing meaningful support to enhance quality of life.
Generally, a properly drafted SNT preserves eligibility for needs-based benefits while enabling additional supports. Directly transferring assets into the beneficiary could affect benefits, but a well-structured trust can prevent loss of essential services in Maryland. We tailor strategies to the beneficiary’s benefit programs and care plan.
A trustee should be someone trusted to act in the beneficiary’s best interests, with clear authority and documentation. Distributions are typically made for supplemental needs after considering benefits, tax implications, and ongoing care costs. We help you select a suitable trustee and draft guidelines that promote consistent care.
Funding involves transferring assets into the trust or naming the trust as a beneficiary of accounts. Ongoing maintenance includes annual reviews, recordkeeping, and coordination with benefits. Our team provides a step-by-step funding plan and supportive administration guidance.
ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts can work in tandem. An ABLE account can handle tax-advantaged savings for disability-related costs, while the SNT coordinates benefits and provides supplemental supports. We review how each option interacts with Medicaid and SSI.
Costs vary by complexity and funding needs but typically include initial plan setup and ongoing administrative fees. We strive for transparent pricing and provide a clear estimate during the initial consultation. We aim to deliver long-term value through careful planning and efficient administration.
If the beneficiary passes away or no longer requires benefits, distributions and residual assets are handled according to the trust terms and state inheritance laws. We provide guidance to ensure final arrangements protect remaining assets for heirs where appropriate.
Processing times vary with complexity, funding, and client preparedness. A typical plan from initial consultation to funding can take several weeks to a few months, depending on documentation and beneficiary programs. We aim to keep you informed throughout the process and minimize delays.
Start with a no-pressure consultation to discuss goals, assets, and eligibility. We will outline steps, answer questions, and provide a roadmap for creating a tailored Special Needs Trust. You can reach us through our Severn, Maryland office to begin.
