Elder Law · Disability Planning
Planning for yourself or a loved one living with a disability, including how benefits, decision-making, and future care fit into your overall plan.
Why it matters
Many people living with a disability rely on needs-based public benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. An inheritance or gift left directly to them, even with the best intentions, could affect their eligibility.
A supplemental needs trust (sometimes called a special needs trust) can provide for a loved one without replacing the public benefits they rely on. The trust is managed by a trustee you choose and can pay for things that improve quality of life.
Bring your questions to a free consultation. We’ll walk through your family’s situation and explain the options that may fit.
Planning tools
Decision-making
At 18, a young adult is legally responsible for their own decisions. If your child will need help with financial or health care decisions, planning ahead allows time to consider the options, from powers of attorney to guardianship or conservatorship when it is necessary, and to choose the least restrictive approach that meets their needs.
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We learn about your loved one, your family, and your goals.
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We look at the benefits your loved one receives or may need and how planning decisions could affect them.
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We recommend the documents that fit, which may include a supplemental needs trust, updated wills, and powers of attorney.
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We prepare the documents under your state’s requirements and walk you through signing.
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Benefits rules, needs, and family circumstances change. We can help keep the plan current.
Disability planning FAQ
General information only. Schedule a free consultation for advice about your situation.
Yes. A supplemental needs trust can provide for a loved one without replacing the public benefits they rely on.
Leaving assets outright could affect eligibility for needs-based benefits such as SSI and Medicaid. A supplemental needs trust is often used instead. An attorney can explain what applies in your situation.
Someone you trust who is organized and willing to serve, with a backup named in case your first choice cannot act. We can talk through the options during your consultation.
Not always. Depending on your child’s needs, powers of attorney or other arrangements may be enough. Guardianship or conservatorship may be appropriate when other options will not work.
Related
Planning for long-term care, Medicaid, and future decision-making.
Preparing for long-term care costs while considering Medicaid eligibility rules.
Choose who handles your finances and health care decisions if you can’t.
Planning for veterans and surviving spouses who may qualify for a VA pension.
Free resources
Free masterclass
Short classes on estate planning, long-term care, probate, and trust administration, presented by Pearson Bollman Law attorneys.
Free guide
A free guide to help you organize your information and prepare for a conversation about your plan.
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Planning for a loved one with a disability raises important questions. Pearson Bollman Law can help you understand your options and next steps. Your initial consultation is free.
