Be Careful When Planning For Your Special Needs Child

Do you have a special needs child?  If your child is receiving government benefits, or perhaps is more than likely going to need government benefits later in life, you may unintentionally divest your child of such benefits if they inherit from you.

If so, estate planning is critical to make sure your child is taken care of in the event you pass away.  Who will manage the money for that child?  There are many questions that need to be asked and answered.   Will you inadvertently divest them of any government benefits they are receiving or may be entitled to?  You can create a Special Needs Trust that can hold the money for your child.  Such a trust is not counted against your child when it comes to qualifying for government benefits.  Special Needs Trusts can be used to provide for your child for things the government doesn't provide.   These trusts need to meet specific requirement to pass muster with the government. A Special Needs Trust can also be the recipient of funds from other family members (ex spouse, grandparents, etc) instead of having them gift directly to your child which may cause them to lose their benefits.