A well drafted SNT can safeguard eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid while providing a protected source of funds for care needs. It also offers clarity to families about guardianship, successor trustees, and ongoing management, reducing family stress during transitions and emergencies.
Benefit 1: Consistent governance and clear responsibilities prevent misunderstandings and ensure distributions align with the beneficiary’s care plan. A documented governance framework helps trustees, caregivers, and family members coordinate decisions, maintain compliance, and adapt to changing health needs over time.
Hatcher Legal, PLLC helps families create resilient planning. We focus on clear communication, transparent costs, and practical solutions that align with North Carolina law. Our approach reduces ambiguity and supports responsible decision making for the future.
Ongoing administration. Trustees review distributions, monitor beneficiary needs, and ensure compliance with reporting requirements, tax filings, and state rules, adjusting plans as life changes for continued protection and reliability.
A Special Needs Trust is a legal tool designed to hold assets for a person with a disability without affecting eligibility for needs-based benefits like SSI or Medicaid. The trust holds funds separately and distributions are carefully controlled. It helps to clarify how support is provided over time.
A trustee can be a family member, a friend, or a professional fiduciary. The choice depends on reliability, understanding of the beneficiary, and the ability to handle paperwork and manage finances. We help you compare options and set expectations.
In most cases, properly drafted SNTs do not interfere with eligibility, and can protect assets while preserving access to benefits. The trust holds funds separately and distributions are carefully controlled. We tailor solutions to your family’s situation and ensure compliance with state and federal rules. We review current income, housing needs, and care plans to minimize risk over time.
We prepare the essential documents, including the trust agreement, powers of attorney, and beneficiary designations. We explain funding instructions and reporting requirements to ensure a smooth start and successful implementation.
The timeline varies by complexity, but typical steps include drafting, reviewing, signing, and funding. We work with you to set realistic milestones and keep you informed at every stage.
Most SNTs are irrevocable to protect benefits, but some hybrid arrangements exist depending on goals. We explain the implications for control, tax, and government programs.
Special Needs Trusts are designed to supplement, not replace, guardianship arrangements and may preserve inheritance rights indirectly by protecting resources and ensuring care. We review estate plans to align with guardianship goals and beneficiary expectations.
A trustee manages distributions, maintains records, files reports, and follows the trust terms. They work with caregivers and professionals to ensure consistent care while protecting the beneficiary’s eligibility.
We offer transparent flat-fee or package options for clarity and predictability. This helps families anticipate costs without surprise bills. During the initial consultation, we outline all potential expenses, including filing fees, trust funding, and periodic reviews, so you can plan with confidence.
Start by contacting our office to schedule a consultation. We will gather basic information about the beneficiary, assets, and goals. After the intake, we outline recommended steps, provide timelines, and prepare draft documents for your review.
