What is a Special Needs Trust?
Sometimes, a disabled individual needs to protect their current or future public benefits. In fact, assets over a certain limit can actually disqualify their benefits. The solution? Establishing a “special needs” or “supplemental needs” trust. It provides a safe harbor for the disabled individual’s assets. That way, assets aren’t counted when determining eligibility for public benefit programs.
Because assets in the trust can be used to pay for needs that government programs don’t cover, a special needs trust can improve your loved one’s quality of life. The trust can make funds available for special therapies, procedures and equipment, as well as for education, training and other items to make your loved one’s life more comfortable.
Types of special needs trusts:
- First-party - Sometimes referred to as “self-settled” special needs trusts, these may be established with a disabled individual’s own assets (typically proceeds from a lawsuit).
- Third-party - These are created and funded with the assets of a person other than the disabled individual, often times a parent or grandparent.
As an administrator of both first-party and third-party special needs trusts, we provide:
- Protection, security and comfort through careful review of your loved one’s needs in relation to government benefits.
- Availability when and where you need us, guiding you through important considerations.
- One-on-one service from an assigned, dedicated trust administrator.
- Access to key services and reduced costs, so their money works harder and goes further.
- Coordination with your loved one’s caregiver, making sure they get what they need - when they need it.