Special Needs Planning

Special care must be taken when planning for individuals who are disabled and may be receiving or are eligible to receive government benefits.

A special needs trust can allow assets to pass for the benefit of a disabled beneficiary without affecting eligibility for government benefits.

Special needs trusts can also be established for disabled individuals who have assets that may disqualify them for government benefits or who receive assets, such as from a personal injury settlement.

In addition, ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) accounts can be an option to protect assets for a disabled individual.

The goal of special needs trust planning is to enhance the quality of life of a disabled individual without affecting access to government benefits.