Special Needs Trusts are essential for families seeking to preserve eligibility for means tested benefits while enabling flexible support. They help cover housing, therapies, transportation, and educational opportunities, without directly transferring assets to the disabled beneficiary. In Fletcher, working with a knowledgeable attorney helps ensure the trust complies with federal and state requirements.
A comprehensive plan maintains control over resources, allowing tailored distributions for therapy, transportation, and adaptive equipment while preserving core public benefits and ensuring accountability through documented guidelines.
Proudly serving North Carolina, Hatcher Legal, PLLC offers clear guidance, collaborative communication, and practical solutions in special needs planning, estate matters, and probate support tailored to family needs.
Annual reporting and compliance checks with state and federal guidelines for ongoing validity.
A Special Needs Trust allows funds to supplement needs without affecting eligibility for government benefits. It creates a safe space for payments related to therapy, equipment, housing, education, and recreation while maintaining essential support programs. The structure helps families plan for the future with confidence and clarity.
Anyone with a family member who depends on means-tested benefits may benefit from this planning tool. Families should consider long term care needs, potential changes in guardianship, and the availability of a trusted trustee to execute the plan responsibly and in coordination with other supports.
First-Party SNTs use assets belonging to the beneficiary and often include payback provisions to government programs after death. Third-Party SNTs are funded by someone else and generally avoid payback requirements. Both types are designed to preserve eligibility while providing additional support.
Trustees can be family members, friends, or professional fiduciaries. They should be trustworthy, organized, and capable of following the plan’s distributions and reporting requirements. Clear guidelines in the trust help reduce confusion and support consistent decision making.
A properly structured SNT preserves essential benefits like Medicaid and SSI while allowing supplementary payments. It does not replace public programs but works alongside them to cover needs not fully met by benefits, such as therapies, transportation, and specialized equipment.
Costs vary by complexity and locality but typically include drafting fees, fiduciary setup, and annual administration. We strive to provide transparent estimates and help families understand value, timelines, and ongoing responsibilities before proceeding.
Processing time depends on planning goals, funding availability, and regulatory review. A typical timeline includes initial consultation, document drafting, funding steps, and finalization, with periodic updates as life changes occur. We aim to keep families informed throughout.
Upon the beneficiary’s death, payback provisions may apply if a First-Party SNT is used. Third-Party SNTs typically pass remaining assets to designated heirs per the trust terms. Our team explains implications and coordinates estate planning to minimize surprises for loved ones.
To begin, contact our Fletcher office at 984-265-7800 for a consultation. We will review goals, discuss options, and outline a practical plan. The next steps include drafting the trust, selecting a Trustee, and coordinating funding and supporting documents.
