Establishing a special needs trust helps protect eligibility for SSI and Medicaid while providing funds for care, therapy, housing, and experiences that improve daily living. By guiding distributions through a trusted plan, families can tailor support to evolving needs and avoid accidental disqualification due to asset ownership.
Enhanced planning helps safeguard public benefits while enabling flexible funding for therapy, housing, transportation, education, and recreational activities that can improve quality of life.
Choosing our firm provides local knowledge, transparent pricing, and a collaborative approach that keeps families informed. We work with guardians, care providers, and financial professionals to build a trusted plan that adapts to changes.
Continued compliance and periodic reviews with beneficiaries, guardians, and program administrators to adapt plans as needs, laws, and circumstances evolve.
A Special Needs Trust is a legal tool designed to support a person with a disability without jeopardizing eligibility for essential public benefits. It holds assets outside the beneficiary’s direct control and restricts distributions to approved uses that supplement care. The trust helps coordinate resources while maintaining program eligibility.
In most cases, individuals or families who rely on SSI or Medicaid can benefit from a carefully drafted SNT. It allows funds to cover healthcare, education, home modifications, or respite care while preserving benefit eligibility. The plan should be tailored to the beneficiary’s needs and family goals.
Yes, a trust can be customized to reflect family goals and beneficiary needs. Some simple situations may not require a trust if benefits are not a concern, but a well-structured plan often provides clearer protections and more predictable support.
A trustee can be a family member, a trusted friend, or a professional, depending on the complexity of the trust and the responsibilities involved. The trustee oversees distributions, keeps records, and ensures compliance with applicable laws and program requirements.
Funding options include family contributions, settlements, and life insurance proceeds. Timing matters because funding should occur in a way that maintains eligibility and aligns with care plans. A clear funding strategy helps ensure smooth administration and proper accounting.
Costs typically cover attorney drafting, initial setup, and periodic updates. There may also be trustee fees or professional service charges. Budgeting for ongoing management and reviews helps maintain compliance and long-term effectiveness.
The timeline depends on complexity and funding. From initial consultation to signing, planning, and funding, the process may take several weeks to a few months. Delays can arise if assets or guardianship arrangements require coordination.
Yes, trusts can be amended or terminated under certain conditions, including changes in law or beneficiary needs. The trust document will specify the amendment process, flexibility, and who can approve changes.
Common documents include birth certificates, financial statements, guardianship papers, tax forms, and any existing wills or trusts. We provide a structured checklist and help assemble all necessary documents for a smooth start.
Trusts should be reviewed periodically, at least every few years or after major life events. Regular reviews help keep the plan aligned with benefits programs, tax considerations, and evolving family goals.
