Planning for the future is an important part of any responsible individual's life, and when it comes to caring for a loved one with special needs, the importance of thoughtful estate planning cannot be overstated. Testamentary Special Needs Trusts offer a powerful tool to safeguard the financial well-being and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

A testamentary Special Needs Trust is created as part of an individual's Will. It serves as a vehicle to manage assets and resources on behalf of a person with special needs, such as a disability or medical condition, without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits. By establishing a Special Needs Trust, you can provide financial support to enhance your loved one's quality of life, ever after you are no longer there to care for them directly. This Trust allows you to appoint a Trustee who will manage and distribute funds according to the specific needs and wishes outlined in the Trust document. By doing so, you can ensure that your loved one receives the necessary financial assistance without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits like Medicaid and SSI.

One of the significant advantages of a Special Needs Trust is its flexibility and customizability. You have the freedom to outline specific instructions regarding the use of funds, such as medical care, therapy, education, housing, and recreational activities. The level of control ensures that your loved one's unique needs and aspirations are met while maintaining their eligibility for essential government assitance. Additionally, a Special Needs Trust can help protect the assets from potential creditors and prevent the funds from being mismanaged or exploited. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your loved one will be taken care of and can enjoy an improved quality of life, with financial security and support that last long after you're gone.

If you want to include a Special Needs Trust as part of your estate plan to take care of a disabled family member, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.