Q. Our son, Charlie, is 40 and has autism and is intellectually disabled. We were a bit older when we had him, and he is our fifth and youngest adult child. He resides with us in our home, but as we are getting older and having health issues ourselves, we are very concerned about what […]
How Can ABLE Accounts and Special Needs Trusts Work Together?
Q. Our son, Joey, has Down’s Syndrome. We decided it was a good idea to plan in advance for him for when we can no longer care for him ourselves. We have been researching our options and found information on Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts. Do I need both a Special Needs Trust and […]
Researchers Find 102 Genes Linked to Autism
Tommy and Henry Stevens are identical twins who were born slightly premature and met their milestones later than others their age. As they became toddlers, they still didn’t say a word. Doctors explained to their mother that there was nothing to worry about, that perhaps they were “late bloomers.” By the time they reached their […]
Supreme Court Rules that the Bare Minimum Isn’t Enough/Planning for an Uncertain Future
Q. My daughter, Hailey, has high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is severely learning disabled, and has a difficult time paying attention in school. We have attended Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings, and are aware that she is just not grasping remedial mathematics, reading, science, or social studies, and has failed most of her Standard of […]
Virginia Becomes First State to Approve ABLE Act
Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe Signs ABLE Act into Law (Source: NBC 29) Q. Our son, Jeff, has autism spectrum disorder and will likely need assistance throughout his lifetime. We are looking for ways to save for his future without jeopardizing his eligibility for Social Security and other government programs. I read about the ABLE act, and how […]
Pooled Special Needs Trusts
Dear Commander Bun Bun, I am considering a pooled special needs trust (managed by a non-profit organization) for my daughter, Shannon, who is intellectually disabled. What are some of the benefits and limitations? Thanks, Sheena Eads-Attrust —– Dear Sheena, Pooled third-party trusts are an alternative to setting up your own special needs trust if you […]