Special Needs Planning

Although teachers cannot diagnose dyslexia formally, screenings at school can help flag students who may have characteristics of the learning disability.

For blended families that include a child with special needs, financial and legal planning extends well beyond the usual parental concerns. But as with all family matters, proactive planning can help.

One of the most powerful tools available to help secure a stable financial future for a child with special needs is a special needs trust (SNT). Setting up an SNT early in a child's life can bring significant advantages that grow...

A special needs trust can allow individuals with special needs to preserve assets that will enhance their quality of life while allowing them to remain eligible for needs-based public benefits like Medicaid and SSI.

Special Needs 101

Funds held in a properly drafted special needs trust will not affect a SSI or Medicaid recipient's benefits. However, funds disbursed in a manner that violates SSI or Medicaid rules can impact these benefits.

Special Needs 101

What is special needs planning, and what options can help people with disabilities? You can protect children or adults with disabilities and ensure they have everything they need to have a safe and happy life.

Special Needs 101

Beneficiaries of programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid may be at risk of losing their benefits if they receive an inheritance or settlement money. What should you do in this situation?...

Special Needs 101

Guardianship can provide parents of children with special needs a way to protect their child's financial and medical wellbeing even after they have turned 18. Learn how guardianship works and the court process.

Special Needs 101

People with special needs may qualify for a variety of government benefits, including Medicaid and Medicare. What's the difference?...

Special Needs 101