Establishing a special needs trust preserves eligibility for Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income while providing funds to cover education, therapy, housing, and recreation. The right trust structure reduces risk of disqualification, minimizes family conflict, and ensures steady access to care as life circumstances evolve in Pleasant Garden and beyond.
A well drafted plan creates predictable funding, reduces the risk of loss, and ensures guardians, caregivers, and professionals know how to administer assets reliably.
Based in North Carolina, our team combines trust-worthy guidance with a responsive approach to protect loved ones and simplify complex decisions.
Regular reviews address life events, law changes, and beneficiary needs, ensuring the plan adapts without compromising protections or eligibility.
A Special Needs Trust is designed to supplement, not replace, government benefits for a person with a disability. It allows funds to be used for approved expenses while preserving eligibility. Beneficiaries, families, and trustees collaborate to ensure the trust supports daily living and long-term security. The right plan improves quality of life and peace of mind.
Yes. When properly drafted, a Special Needs Trust preserves eligibility for programs like Medicaid and SSI. Funds are used to cover approved needs and services, while careful distributions prevent disqualification or unintended losses of benefits. Regular reviews help keep the plan compliant as rules evolve.
A trustee should be someone trusted to manage funds, understand disability planning, and communicate clearly with family. Common choices include a family member, a trusted friend, or a professional fiduciary. The key is oversight, reliability, and a track record of timely, accountable administration.
Costs vary with complexity. Typical expenses include initial drafting, due diligence, and annual administration. Our firm provides transparent pricing and predictable billing, helping families plan for ongoing management, updates, and compliance without surprises.
A settlement or inheritance can fund a First-Party or Third-Party SNT, depending on the structure. We tailor funding to protect benefits, establish use restrictions, and keep the plan aligned with long-term care goals while meeting eligibility requirements.
A First-Party SNT uses the beneficiary’s own assets and often includes Medicaid payback. A Third-Party SNT is funded by others and does not require payback. Both types can preserve benefits, but the funding source and obligations differ.
A payback provision requires remaining funds at termination to reimburse government programs for benefits paid during life. This preserves public resources while still providing for the beneficiary’s needs and enabling continued care through the trust’s provisions.
It is wise to review a Special Needs Trust at least annually or after major life events. Updates may be necessary due to changes in law, beneficiary needs, or family circumstances to ensure ongoing eligibility and effectiveness.
Documents typically include the trust agreement, a letter of intent, beneficiary information, trustee appointment, powers of attorney, and any guardianship orders. We guide families through the necessary paperwork and ensure all components work together smoothly.
To start, contact our office for an initial consultation. We will discuss goals, assess needs, and outline a tailored plan. From there, we guide you through drafting, funding, and implementation with clear timelines and supportive coordination.
