Are you a
parent of a special needs child? Do you often worry about your child’s care
after you die? Such thoughts are common for parents, grandparents, and
providers of special needs individuals. If you care for a loved one
To Your Better Future
To Your Better Future, published by My Special Legal Planning, focuses on legal issues related to estate planning and support for individuals with disabilities and special needs. The blog covers topics such as the management and legal implications of 529 college savings plans owned by trusts, recent changes to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) rules, guardianship considerations for high-functioning children with disabilities, and the use of Special Needs Trusts to protect and manage assets. It aims to provide practical guidance for parents, caregivers, and individuals navigating complex legal and financial planning decisions to secure a better future for those with special needs.
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Latest from To Your Better Future
What to Do with a 529 Plan for Your Child with Special Needs
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
Many parents open a 529 plan with the expectation that their child will one day attend college or pursue higher education. When a child later receives a disability diagnosis, it is natural to question whether a 529 is still the…
The Hidden Rules of 529 Plans: What Happens When a Trust Owns the Account?
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
When it comes to saving for college, 529 plans are one of the most powerful tools available. They offer tax-deferred growth and tax-free withdrawals when used for qualified education expenses. But while these accounts are generally straightforward, things can get…
Understanding the Recent Changes to SSI Rules in Simple Terms
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
Several important changes to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) went into effect in September 2024. This blog may be a little delayed in covering them, but I believe it is never too late to try and simplify complex policies. My goal…
Does My High-Functioning Child Need a Guardian? Finding the Challenging Balance Between Independence and Support
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
For parents of higher-functioning children with
disabilities, one of the key decisions when their child turns 18 is whether
guardianship is necessary. While the goal is often to help children live as
independently as possible, there are situations where additional…
Five Most Common Estate Planning Mistakes That Parents of Children with Special Needs Make
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
Is a Special Needs Trust Necessary for My High-Functioning Child?
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
When parents think about estate planning for their
high-functioning child with special needs, they often assume that a Special
Needs Trust (SNT) isn’t necessary, especially if the child is not likely to be
receiving public benefits like Supplemental Security Income
high-functioning child with special needs, they often assume that a Special
Needs Trust (SNT) isn’t necessary, especially if the child is not likely to be
receiving public benefits like Supplemental Security Income
…
Empowering Your Newly Turned 18-Year-Old: The Importance of Health Care Proxies and HIPAA Waivers
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
When your child turns 18, it’s a moment of pride and
transition. They’re stepping into adulthood, gaining independence, and making
decisions for themselves. But as exciting as this milestone is, it’s easy to
overlook one critical detail: the change in…
Why You Need Guardianship When Your Child with Disability Turns 18
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
As parents, navigating the transition to adulthood for a
child with disabilities can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to legal
responsibilities. When your child turns 18, they are legally considered an
adult, which often comes as a surprise to…
Understanding ABLE Accounts
By Pooja Arora & Attorney
The
Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, signed into law in 2014, created
a powerful savings tool for individuals with disabilities. ABLE accounts allow
people with disabilities to save money without losing access to essential
government benefits like SSI…