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Special Needs Planning

Special needs planning requires thoughtful consideration, especially when you are looking to the future. Families with a member who has a disability must plan for the future with specific care. The way assets are left after your passing can significantly affect the quality of life for your loved one. In the past, a simple Will might have been enough, but times have changed.

Planning for a family member with a disability requires careful consideration to ensure their long-term well-being. A Special Needs Trust allows parents, grandparents, or guardians to provide financial support without jeopardizing eligibility for government benefits such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Key elements include selecting a trustworthy Trustee to manage assets, choosing a Guardian to care for your loved one, and providing detailed instructions for their education, housing, and personal needs. A well-crafted trust not only safeguards financial resources but also helps prevent family conflicts and ensures your loved one’s quality of life is maintained.

Our Special Needs Planning attorney, Richard J. Sakoda, has extensive experience helping families create and manage Special Needs Trusts. He is dedicated to guiding clients through the legal requirements and ensuring that every plan is tailored to protect and support your loved one’s future.