Special Needs Trusts Lawyer in Tempe, Arizona
Planning for the long-term financial well-being of a loved one with a disability requires careful legal and financial strategies. A special needs trust (SNT) is one of the most effective ways to provide financial security while preserving eligibility for essential government benefits. At Robert J. Weber PC, we help families in Tempe, Arizona, establish special needs trusts that ensure their loved ones receive the care and support they need.
What Is a Special Needs Trust?
A special needs trust is a legal arrangement that holds assets for a person with a disability without affecting their ability to qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and other government assistance programs. Many public benefits have strict income and asset limits, meaning that a direct inheritance or financial gift could unintentionally disqualify an individual from receiving necessary support.
With a properly structured trust, funds can be used to enhance quality of life by covering expenses such as:
- Medical and dental care not covered by Medicaid
- Education and job training
- Personal care attendants
- Housing and transportation
- Assistive technology and therapy
- Recreational and social activities
Types of Special Needs Trusts
There are two primary types of special needs trusts, each serving different circumstances:
First-Party Special Needs Trust
- Funded with the disabled individual’s own assets, such as an inheritance, lawsuit settlement, or personal savings.
- Protects government benefits while allowing access to additional financial resources.
- Upon the beneficiary’s passing, any remaining funds may be used to reimburse Medicaid for services provided.
Third-Party Special Needs Trust
- Funded by parents, grandparents, or other family members using their own assets.
- Used as part of estate planning to leave an inheritance without affecting government benefits.
- No Medicaid payback requirement, allowing any remaining funds to be distributed to other heirs.
Each family’s situation is unique, and selecting the right trust requires careful planning. At Robert J. Weber PC, we guide families through this decision-making process and ensure that all legal requirements are met.
Why Legal Guidance Is Essential
Establishing a special needs trust involves navigating complex legal and financial considerations. An improperly structured trust could jeopardize government benefits, creating unnecessary challenges for the beneficiary.
At Robert J. Weber PC, we help families in Tempe, Arizona:
- Ensure the trust complies with Arizona and federal laws.
- Properly structure the trust to protect eligibility for government assistance.
- Select a responsible trustee to manage and distribute funds.
- Provide ongoing legal support for trust modifications or updates.
A well-drafted special needs trust offers long-term financial security and peace of mind, allowing families to focus on what matters most—caring for their loved ones.
Begin Planning Today
A special needs trust is a vital tool for safeguarding a loved one’s financial future while preserving essential benefits. At Robert J. Weber PC, we are dedicated to helping families in Tempe, Arizona, create estate plans that provide lasting protection and security.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit www.robert-j-weberpc.com today.