A properly drafted Special Needs Trust ensures that funds for a beneficiary with disabilities do not jeopardize eligibility for needs-based programs such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. It also provides a structured method to manage assets, coordinate with caregivers, and secure long-term care plans. Families gain peace of mind knowing there is a clear plan for future care.
Improved clarity for trustees and family members, leading to more consistent decisions and fewer disputes during critical care moments.
Our firm brings practical experience in estate planning and disability planning, with a focus on transparent communication and personalized solutions that respect your family’s goals and budget.
We outline a schedule for regular reviews, updates, and coordination with caregivers and service providers to maintain plan effectiveness.
A Special Needs Trust is designed to protect a beneficiary’s eligibility for government benefits while allowing funds to supplement quality of life. It is especially important for families with assets or potential inheritances that could otherwise affect benefits. Our guidance clarifies whether an SNT is appropriate and how to implement it effectively.
SNTs are designed to target supplemental needs rather than replace benefits like Medicaid or SSI. Properly structured, the trust preserves eligibility while permitting covered expenses such as therapy, transportation, adaptive equipment, and caregiver supports, enhancing the beneficiary’s daily living without risking program loss.
A trustee should be trustworthy, financially literate, and capable of long-term planning. Duties include prudent investment oversight, timely distributions, record-keeping, and regular communication with family members and service providers to ensure the beneficiary’s needs are met responsibly.
First-party SNTs fund from the beneficiary’s own assets, while third-party SNTs are funded by family or friends. Each type has distinct tax and eligibility implications. We help you determine the best structure based on asset sources and long-term care goals.
Amendments are often possible to reflect changes in the beneficiary’s needs or family circumstances, though some restrictions may apply. We guide you through the legal process, ensuring amendments preserve benefits and align with the original planning objectives.
Planning timelines vary with complexity, but most initial drafts can be completed within a few weeks. A thorough review, funding steps, and final execution may extend the timeline. We provide a clear schedule and stay closely aligned with your expectations.
Costs depend on the complexity of the trust and related documents. We offer transparent fee structures, provide detailed estimates upfront, and explain how funding and ongoing administration expenses are managed over time.
Annual or biannual reviews are recommended to adapt to changes in care needs, assets, or government policies. Regular updates help ensure continued eligibility and alignment with the beneficiary’s goals and preferences.
Complementary documents include guardianship or power of attorney, advance directives, and a comprehensive estate plan. Together, these tools coordinate care, ensure decisions reflect your wishes, and support smooth transitions if circumstances change.
To begin, contact our Braddock Heights office for a no-obligation consultation. We will review your situation, discuss options, and outline a custom plan. You’ll receive clear next steps, timelines, and a transparent estimate of costs.
