Planning May 20, 2025

The Importance of Special Needs Trusts

Providing for a family member with disabilities requires careful planning to preserve eligibility for essential public benefits.

A Special Needs Trust (SNT) allows you to set aside funds for a loved one with disabilities without disqualifying them from Medicaid or SSI.

These trusts can be funded by parents (Third-Party SNT) or with the individual's own assets (First-Party SNT), each with specific legal requirements.

Thoughtful drafting ensures that the trust assets improve the beneficiary's quality of life while maintaining their financial safety net.