Special Needs Trust

A special needs trust (SNT) can be established to provide for a disabled person's needs beyond the support from the government. There are various government programs earmarked for the support of a disabled individual, including Supplemental Social Security (SSI), Social Security Disability Income (SSDI),

Medicare, and Medicaid. Generally, these benefits are classified into two categories: needs-based and non-needs based. Non-needs based benefits, such as SSDI and Medicare, could be provided to a disabled person regardless of the recipient's level of income or wealth. SSI and Medicaid are needs-based, and as such, there are restrictions on the amount of wealth and income a recipient can have. The purpose of a SNT is to supplement, not to replace the above mentioned public benefits. If you would like more information about establishing a special needs trust, please contact our office.