Special Needs Trusts

A recent case from California illustrates what can happen when good intentions go awry and you rely on a generic estate plan to distribute funds to a relative with special needs.

In the first part of a two-part series, we explore initial steps for trustees to take when it comes time to terminate a special needs trust.

There are some times when an SSI or SSDI beneficiary is responsible for notifying the government of a change in his or her life. Missing a required notification could result in a loss of benefits.

A new survey of nearly 4,000 Medicare beneficiaries has found that Medicare beneficiaries who are younger than 65 receive fewer medical services, have a harder time paying for the medical care that they do receive, and are more likely to...

Several federal agencies recently proposed new regulations that will prevent banks from completely freezing bank accounts that receive certain benefit payments, including Social Security Disability Insurance payments, Supplemental Security Income, and Veterans benefits.

In some cases, the donor of a special needs trust may want to provide an extra level of assistance to the trust's beneficiary by naming a trust adviser to assist the trustee with trust management. ...

As the unemployment rate for people with disabilities continues to decline, a new public service announcement is challenging viewers to rethink how they perceive career prospects for youth with disabilities.

In the wake of the shooting rampage in Newtown, Connecticut, President Obama put forth a comprehensive plan to address gun violence that includes proposals to address mental health issues, including a substantial expansion of services for children and teenagers with...

When care needs are significant or family members cannot be available, parents may wish to include instructions in a special needs trust for the trustee to retain a professional care manager.