Special Needs Trusts

Special Needs Trusts FAQs

If you are a parent of a child with special needs, you need special estate planning. Why? Because if you leave assets directly to your  child, either…

Special Needs Trusts

Can an Individual Create a First Party Special Needs Trust for His or Her Own Benefit?

A Special Needs Trust (SNT), also known as a Supplemental Needs Trust, is a trust created for a disabled beneficiary to hold funds in a way…

Special Needs Trusts

What is a Pooled Special Needs Trust?

Special needs trusts are trusts that hold assets for a disabled beneficiary and distribute funds in a way that preserves the beneficiary’s eligibility to receive public benefits.

Special Needs Trusts

What is the Difference between a First-Party Special Needs Trust and a Third-Party Special Needs Trust?

I received an email this week from someone who had a special needs trust for a sibling. She wondered if her sibling could put some of his…

Special Needs Trusts

Would You Like A Will With That Special Needs Trust?

Several parents have contacted me recently about setting up stand-alone special needs trust for their children. Unlike a supplemental needs trust that is created in a…

Special Needs Trusts

Guidance For Trustees of Special Needs Trusts

If you have been named as the trustee of a special needs trust, you likely have many questions about how to administer the trust. You can…

Special Needs Trusts

Should I Disinherit My Disabled Child to Protect His Benefits?

Parents whose children are receiving government benefits, such as SSI and Medicaid, know that those benefits are means-tested. Those with countable assets greater than $2,000 can…

FAQs About Estate Planning, Special Needs Trusts

Will a Uniform Transfers to Minors Account Negatively Impact My Child With Special Needs?

Uniform Transfers to Minors Accouts (UTMA) accounts are an easy and inexpensive way for parents, grandparents and other well meaning individuals to make irrevocable gifts to minors…

Special Needs Trusts

Writing a Letter of Intent for Child With Special Needs

Every parent worries about whether their children will be well cared for if tragedy strikes. But the worries are compounded for parents of children with special…

Special Needs Trusts

What Supplemental Expenses Can Special Needs Trusts Pay For?

Unlike a support trust which direct that funds be used for the health, welfare, and support of a beneficiary, a Special Needs Trust (SNT) is a…