Special Needs Trusts
If your child or loved one has special needs, it is probably second nature to worry about them. You are probably concerned about what may happen to them when you are no longer able to serve as their primary care giver. While you can make provisions for them to receive money and assets, that can create a problem with their ability to maintain their eligibility for essential benefits under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicare programs. Depending on what you leave them, they could lose their benefits all together. The attorneys at the Murphy Law Group can set up a Special Needs Trust, also known as a Supplemental Needs Trust, to enable you to provide money and other assets for your special needs loved one without jeopardizing their eligibility for government assistance.
A Special Needs or Supplemental Needs Trust created by an attorney with the Murphy Law Group will ensure that government benefit eligibility is preserved while also providing assets that will meet the supplemental needs of a loved one with a disability. These supplemental needs may include:
- Out-of-pocket medical and dental expenses
- A personal care attendant or escort
- Annual check-ups at an independent medical facility
- Transportation (this can include the purchase of a vehicle)
- Vehicle maintenance
- Physical fitness or athletic competitions
- Attendance of religious services
- Special dietary needs
- Supplemental education and tutoring
- Materials or funds for a hobby or recreation activity
- Funds for trips, vacations and entertainment
- Goods and services that enhance quality of life
If you have a special needs loved one, contact the Murphy Law Group so that we can help you incorporate a Special Needs Trust into your estate plan.