Special Needs Trusts help families protect eligibility for programs like Medicaid and SSI while providing supplemental funds for daily living, education, therapy, and transportation. A well-structured trust reduces the risk of unintended disqualification and offers a clear plan for long-term care, comfort, and independence for a beneficiary.
A comprehensive plan aligns trust provisions with Medicaid and SSI rules, ensuring ongoing eligibility while enabling meaningful supplemental supports that improve daily life for the beneficiary.
We bring NC-based experience in Estate Planning and Probate, focusing on compassionate, practical guidance. Our approach emphasizes clarity, accessibility, and collaboration with families to tailor solutions that meet the beneficiary’s needs while staying within legal requirements.
We provide periodic reviews, update plans as needed, and maintain open lines of communication with families to support long-term stability, and adjust plans as conditions change.
A Special Needs Trust is a protective arrangement designed to provide supplemental support for a beneficiary with disabilities without compromising eligibility for essential government programs. It coordinates assets and distributions to meet daily needs while preserving access to critical benefits.
In many cases, properly structured SNTs preserve access to Medicaid, SSI, and other supports. By keeping trust funds separate and using distributions for defined needs, the beneficiary can receive enhanced care without losing eligibility.
A first-party SNT uses funds belonging to the beneficiary, while a third-party SNT uses assets provided by family or others. Pooled trusts combine resources under a central administrator. Each option has different implications for control, tax, and program eligibility.
A trustee should be someone who understands governance, is trustworthy, and can manage assets responsibly. Many families choose a close relative, a professional fiduciary, or a trusted attorney who can coordinate with care providers and financial advisors.
Funding a trust typically involves transferring assets, designating the trust as a beneficiary, or earmarking funds from life insurance or inheritances. We guide families through asset transfers, beneficiary designations, and proper documentation to ensure a smooth transition.
Yes. SNTs can cover a wide range of disability-related needs, including housing, transportation, therapy, education, and technology, provided these expenditures align with program rules and approved trustee discretion.
If the beneficiary dies, remaining funds may pass to other beneficiaries; depending on the trust terms, the grantor’s wishes, and state laws. Provisions can be included to preserve assets for other family members or to reimburse Medicaid for services rendered.
Costs vary based on complexity, asset size, and trustee selection. We provide transparent fee discussions during initial consultations and outline ongoing maintenance expenses so families can budget appropriately while maintaining disability protections.
Administrative timelines depend on funding, document preparation, and court steps. A well-coordinated plan typically takes several weeks to a few months, with periodic reviews scheduled to reflect changing needs and regulations.
To get started, contact our Creedmoor office for an initial consultation. We will assess eligibility, discuss goals, and outline a tailored plan for creating a Special Needs Trust that protects benefits and enhances quality of life.
