Special Needs -- A Loving Gift!

A special needs trust is one very special estate planning tool, and one that can be used to enhance the life of a very special person.

At one time or another, most all of us have known of a family member or friend who may be challenged or disabled for any number of reasons. Many times, government entitlements such as Medi-Cal or SSI are available in these circumstances, but if someone would like to help provide for that person, whether that person is an adult or child, or to leave an inheritance, that provision could easily disqualify the challenged person for government assistance programs.

There IS a way to make sure a child will be well cared for or a loved one can be left with resources to meet "special needs." A special needs trust is one that is written in such a way as to add to, rather than displace, government assistance.

A special needs trust is designed to provide things not covered by government benefits. Some examples include reading and educational resources, over-the counter medications, and family vacations, as well as other niceties of life that most of us take for granted - cosmetics, recreation, boom boxes -- things that will enhance the comfort and quality of life beyond basic items of support and necessaries, and things that could possibly pave the way for an independent, enjoyable and productive life.

Although not every disabled person with a disability ought have a special needs trust, it is nice to know there is a way to help a loved one who is unable to manage his or her financial affairs, and/or will enjoy an enhanced standard of living through this type of a trust without jeopardizing the governmental support that is available.

A counseling-oriented estate planning attorney will be able to identify the appropriate situation for a special-needs trust and will have the ability to furnish a carefully thought out trust with the essential provisions to provide the comfort your loved so richly deserves.

Because I will listen, you CAN have an estate plan that works. Call me at 760-340-4188.

Some information obtained from The Academy of Multidisciplinary Practice © 2001 - 2003