Special Needs Trusts and Planning

If you have a special needs child, grandchild or other member of your family, or if you yourself have a disability, you may wonder how you can create some level of financial security for that person or yourself without jeopardizing essential government benefits with special needs planning and trusts.

You may be confused about the following:

  • What types of governmental benefits are available?
  • What criteria is used by the government to determine eligibility for various benefits such as SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, section 8 housing and other benefits?
  • How can I gift money or valuables to my special needs loved one during my lifetime or at death in my Will without jeopardizing their benefits?
  • What if my special needs loved one or I (if disabled) receive an Inheritance, a gift or a law suit settlement – how might that affect government benefits?

Could a Special Needs Trust be the answer to many of these issues?”

  • What types of Special Needs Trusts are available? What are the differences between first party, third party and pooled trusts?
  • How does the Special Needs Trust work?
  • What types of assets can be held in a Special Needs Trust?
  • What expenses can the Special Needs Trust be used for?

Special Needs Planning is a sensitive and intricate process. You can trust Mike, who grew up with a disabled step-brother and has years of experience drafting trusts, to kindly and carefully guide you through the process of securing your child’s (or your) future.

Giordano Law’s Special Needs Planning practice includes:

If you have questions related to your Special Needs loved one or yourself (if you are disabled) and would like to discuss your options, please call the office to set up a consultation.