Special Needs Planning
Securing the Future for Your Family
Protect the financial security of your loved ones while preserving their access to essential benefits like Medicaid, Medicare, SSI, and SSDI.
Provide for Your Loved Ones without Jeopardizing their Benefits
Planning for the future of a loved one with special needs requires extra care and attention. At Evergreen Estate & Elder Law, we offer comprehensive estate planning services to ensure that your loved ones are protected and financially secure. Our special needs planning services, including Special Needs Trusts, can provide for their future without jeopardizing important government benefits like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
A Special Needs Trust allows you to set aside assets to enhance your loved one’s quality of life while preserving their eligibility for essential benefits. It’s a powerful tool to help ensure they receive the care and support they need for a lifetime. Whether you’re planning ahead for a child or family member, or need immediate guidance, we’re here to help you create a plan tailored to your family’s unique situation.
Our compassionate team understands the complexities involved in special needs planning and will work with you to design a plan that safeguards your loved one’s future while providing you with peace of mind.
Estate Planning for the Unique Needs of Your Loved One
Special needs estate planning often involves more than a Special Needs Trust alone. In addition, tools like powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and guardianship designations can help manage medical, financial, and legal decisions when needed. These tools work together to protect your loved one’s future, ensure they maintain eligibility for essential government benefits, and provide a clear plan for their care and well-being. Our personalized approach helps you create a strategy that addresses both immediate and long-term needs for your loved one.
FAQs
Find answers to common questions about special needs planning, from creating trusts to protecting benefits and ensuring long-term care for your loved ones.
What is a Special Needs Trust?
A Special Needs Trust is a legal tool that allows you to set aside assets for a loved one with a disability without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
How does a Special Needs Trust help protect my loved one’s benefits?
A Special Needs Trust ensures that any funds placed in the trust are not counted as income or assets by government agencies, which preserves eligibility for benefits that are vital for your loved one’s care.
What other estate planning tools are used in special needs planning?
In addition to Special Needs Trusts, tools such as powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and guardianship designations are often used to ensure that your loved one has the appropriate legal and financial protection.
Can I leave assets directly to my loved one with special needs?
It’s generally not recommended to leave assets directly to a person with special needs, as it may disqualify them from receiving government benefits. A Special Needs Trust ensures that assets are used for their benefit while maintaining eligibility for public assistance.
What happens if my loved one’s needs change over time?
Special needs planning is flexible. We can help you set up plans that can be adjusted as your loved one’s needs evolve, ensuring their care is continuously supported and their quality of life is maintained.
How do I get started with special needs planning?
The first step is to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney who understands the unique needs of people with disabilities. We will work with you to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses your loved one’s current and future needs, ensuring they are cared for and protected.
