Special Needs

How do I leave money to a disabled child without affecting their government benefits?

A special needs trust allows you to leave assets for a disabled beneficiary without disqualifying them from SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits. The trust pays for supplemental expenses like therapy, equipment, or recreation while preserving eligibility for essential government programs. You can fund it through your will, life insurance, or by transferring assets during your lifetime. The key is ensuring the trust language meets federal requirements and doesn't give the beneficiary direct control over distributions.