Jenny loved being a mom. Raising her son Michael, who had special needs, brought her immense joy—but it also came with challenges. Jenny was Michael’s biggest advocate, navigating a maze of therapies and education plans to ensure he thrived. But one night, while watching Michael peacefully sleep, a thought struck her with a terrifying weight: “What happens to Michael if I’m not here?”
Jenny couldn’t shake the question, and she knew she needed a plan. That’s when she turned to Voorhees Law Group, where she discovered the power of Special Needs Trusts (SNTs). These legal tools are more than just financial strategies—they’re lifelines for families like Jenny’s. An SNT allows families to provide for their loved ones with disabilities without jeopardizing access to critical government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
During her consultation, Jenny learned that simply leaving an inheritance to Michael could do more harm than good. Assets directly in his name might disqualify him from the benefits he relied on. Instead, by placing funds in an SNT, Jenny could ensure Michael’s quality of life was maintained without jeopardizing his access to medical care and support programs.
Jenny’s attorney explained the intricacies of SNTs, from how they’re managed to the rules surrounding their use. Federal and state laws dictate that funds in the trust must only be used for Michael’s supplemental needs—things that elevate his quality of life beyond the basics. Examples include educational programs, specialized equipment, and even recreational activities.
Another crucial piece of advice from her attorney involved beneficiary designations. Jenny hadn’t realized that naming Michael as a direct beneficiary of her life insurance policy or retirement accounts could disrupt the carefully constructed plan. Instead, she named the SNT as the beneficiary, ensuring everything flowed seamlessly into the trust for Michael’s benefit.
Reflecting on the history of SNTs, Jenny’s attorney shared how these trusts became widely recognized in the 1970s, filling a critical gap for families. Before then, parents like Jenny had limited options, often depleting their life savings to provide for their children. Today, SNTs are a testament to how proper planning can create security and stability for vulnerable loved ones.
Now, Jenny sleeps peacefully, knowing Michael’s future is secure. Her act of love has guaranteed that he’ll always have the care he deserves, even in her absence. If you’re ready to take the next step in protecting your loved ones, Request a Consultation today and let Voorhees Law Group guide you.