How this service helps
Planning for a person with a disability involves more than choosing who inherits. A supplemental needs trust may help provide additional support while taking means-tested benefits into account. The source of the funds, the beneficiary’s circumstances, and the way the trust is administered all affect the plan. A trust is not a blanket guarantee of benefits eligibility.
Plan around the person you love
When you care for a loved one with a disability, the future can raise deeply personal questions. Who will help manage money? How can family support contribute to a fulfilling life? A supplemental needs trust can be part of a thoughtful plan that considers both financial support and the benefits your loved one may rely on.
A conversation about long-term support
We start with the beneficiary’s life and needs, then consider how the plan can support them.
Understand the support needed
Discuss your loved one’s circumstances, priorities, and current sources of assistance.
Choose a trusted manager
Consider who could serve as trustee and handle the responsibilities involved.
Coordinate family intentions
Discuss how a planned gift or inheritance should connect with the trust.
Why families explore this planning
Parents, grandparents, and other loved ones may want to leave an inheritance while considering benefits such as SSI or Medicaid. Others are planning for funds that belong to the person with a disability. The source of the funds helps determine which type of trust to consider. We explain that distinction without asking you to figure it out alone.
Take the first step with a conversation
Bring an overview of your loved one’s needs, benefits, anticipated funding, and any existing planning. We discuss the purpose of the trust, the people who may be involved, and the next steps for preparing a plan. Our focus is on helping you understand your options and plan with care.
Your questions, answered
Why does the source of the money matter?
Trusts funded with the beneficiary’s own money can follow different rules from trusts funded by parents or other third parties. Certain trusts can require Medicaid reimbursement provisions.
Can trust distributions affect benefits?
Yes. Payments from a trust can affect benefits even when the trust itself is not counted as a resource. Administration is an important part of protecting the plan.
What should we discuss first?
Start with the beneficiary’s needs, current benefits, expected funding, and the person or institution that could serve as trustee.
Wondering how this fits your life?
You do not need to know exactly which document to request. Tell us about your family, your goals, and your questions. We will help you identify the next step, in English or Spanish.