Estate Planning for Special Situations: Beneficiaries with a Disability

Trusts are commonly used to set aside assets for the benefit of a person with disabilities, while at the same time, ensuring that such assets do not disqualify the person for means-tested government benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income ("SSI"). Generally, to qualify for SSI (and the highest level of Medicaid benefits in many states), a single person's assets cannot exceed $2,000. Federal and state law authorizes an exception to the Medicaid asset availability rules for funds held in a special needs trust. This course, presented by Crystal West Edwards, will review certain eligibility rules for means-tested benefits, various types of special needs trusts, tips for selecting the right trustee, and trust administration pitfalls to avoid.

Learning Objectives:

1. Examine the different types of trusts used for beneficiaries with a disability

2. Identify and discuss the risks and pitfalls of improper planning

3. Obtain practical tips to identify the best trust structure for a beneficiary with disabilities