A Special Needs Trust (SNT) is a legal tool designed to hold and manage assets for your loved one with a disability without jeopardizing their eligibility for essential public benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Because these programs have strict income and asset limits, receiving funds outright — even through your well-intentioned inheritance — can cause a loss of benefits. A properly structured Special Needs Trust helps you avoid that outcome.
Special Needs Trusts allow you to provide financial support that supplements, rather than replaces, government benefits. Trust assets can be used for expenses that improve your loved one’s quality of life — such as education, therapy, transportation, recreation, and personal needs — while benefits continue to cover basic support and medical care.
Special Needs Trusts are commonly used to:
- Preserve your loved one’s eligibility for SSI and Medicaid
- Manage inherited or gifted assets responsibly
- Provide long-term financial oversight and continuity
- Protect funds from misuse or exploitation
- Support your loved one’s quality of life over time
There are different types of Special Needs Trusts, including first-party and third-party trusts, each governed by specific rules regarding funding, administration, and remainder beneficiaries. Selecting the correct trust type is critical to your compliance and long-term effectiveness.
Special Needs Trusts are most effective when integrated into your broader estate and care plan. This includes coordinating your beneficiary designations, wills, and family gifting strategies to ensure all assets flow correctly into the trust. Because laws and benefit programs can change, your ongoing review is essential to keep the trust aligned with current regulations and your loved one’s evolving needs.
Why Choose Farr Law Firm
Farr Law Firm provides focused, experienced guidance in Special Needs Trust planning.
- Deep Knowledge of Disability and Benefit Rules: The firm understands the technical requirements governing Special Needs Trusts.
- Customized Trust Design: Each trust is tailored to the beneficiary’s needs and family circumstances.
- Integrated Estate Planning Coordination: Trusts are aligned with broader estate and gifting strategies.
- Long-Term Planning Perspective: Planning anticipates future care, support, and oversight needs.
- Clear, Responsible Guidance: Families receive practical explanations and confident legal direction.
Provide Support Without Risking Benefits
A Special Needs Trust allows you to provide meaningful support while protecting essential benefits. Farr Law Firm offers experienced guidance to help ensure your trust is structured correctly and sustainably. Contact us today to discuss Special Needs Trust planning tailored to your family’s goals.
Farr Law Firm Locations
Farr Law Firm proudly serves clients throughout the region, with offices in: