Did you know that nearly one in ten families has a loved one with a disability? If that person depends on government assistance in the form of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medi-Cal, their benefits may be in jeopardy if they receive an inheritance other than in a qualified special needs trust.
Special needs trusts are also often appropriate after a litigation recovery or settlement when the plaintiff has a disability.
Our office has a strong focus on estate planning for beneficiaries with special needs. It’s important to work with someone who is dedicated to the service of individuals with disabilities. Your attorney will need to have experience preparing a special needs trust that stands apart from your living trust.
A special needs trust can provide continued access to vital benefits, ensure that the family member has resources that go beyond what the government can provide, and protect the funds you leave from all kinds of external threats, including lawsuits, divorces, creditors, bankruptcies, and unscrupulous parties. A well-drafted special needs trust can provide the structure necessary for a person to thrive despite their special needs.