One of the most frequent questions we hear at Clarity Legal Group is: “Can a trust really support my child with special needs for the rest of his or her life?” The answer is a definitive yes.
For parents of children with disabilities, the fear of “doing the wrong thing” with an inheritance is real. If you leave assets directly to a child who relies on government programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid, those assets could inadvertently disqualify them from the very benefits they need.
How the Special Needs Trust Works
A Special Needs Trust (SNT) is a specific legal tool designed to hold assets for your child without impacting their government benefit eligibility.
- Management and Control: The trust names a trustee to manage and oversee the assets, ensuring they are used specifically for the benefit of your loved one.
- Beyond Basic Needs: While government benefits often cover the basics, an SNT is designed to enhance your child’s quality of life. This includes funding for specialized therapies, travel experiences, and life-enhancing technologies.
Planning for the Future An SNT isn’t just a document; it’s a toolbox for the people you designate to care for your child when you no longer can. By creating a clear roadmap, you ensure that your love and support continue to provide for them, exactly the way you intended.
See it in Action If you want to see how this works in a real-life scenario, we are here to help.
Contact Clarity Legal Group today at 919-484-0012 or download our Special Needs Planning Worksheet below.
Special Needs Planning Worksheet
