» Special Needs Planning

Special Needs Trusts

When an individual with a disability receives an inheritance or settlement funds, the first reaction is often fear rather than relief. Many of these individuals rely on valuable public benefits such as Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid to mee… Read More
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Empowering Individuals and Families: Introducing the Special Needs Alliance Handbook

Navigating life as an adult with disabilities or as a caregiver for someone with special needs can be complex and overwhelming. From understanding legal rights to accessing essential services and resources, there are numerous challenges to overcome.… Read More
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Preparing Young Adults with Disabilities for College

This post was authored by SNA member Beth C. Manes, Esq., Co-Founder and Partner at Manes & Weinberg Special Needs Lawyers, LLC. in Westfield, NJ, and Denise Gackenheimer Verzella, a Senior Associate with her firm. An SNA member since 2022, Beth… Read More
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Care and Caregiving Fees in Special Needs Trust Planning

This issue of The Voice® is by SNA member Rebecca Kueny of Kueny Law LLC. Located in Salem, Oregon, her firm covers the entire state of Oregon and focuses on special needs planning, disability benefits, estate planning, long-term care planning, and… Read More
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Special Needs Alliance Announces Passing of the Special Needs Trust Improvement Act of 2022

The Special Needs Alliance (SNA), a national organization comprised of attorneys committed to the practice of disability and public benefits law, is proud to have advocated for and supported the recent passing of the Special Needs Trust (SNT) Improve… Read More
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Important Elder Law and Special Needs Planning Numbers for 2023

Each new year means new financial limits and thresholds related to estate planning, long-term care planning, and special needs planning. Below are some of the most important numbers for 2023. As always, we are here to help you and your loved ones pla… Read More
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Three Ways to Avoid a Reduction in SSI Benefits Due to In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM)

Only individuals with limited income and assets are eligible for Supplemental Security Income, known as SSI. (Do not confuse SSI and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) which is a very different program.) If an individual who receives SSI is… Read More
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Retaining SSI and Medicaid While Working

Retaining SSI and Medicaid While Working Employment is about more than making a living. Working and earning a wage promotes dignity, self-worth, and independence and provides community. Fortunately, a person with disabilities can participate in the w… Read More
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Litigators, Do No Harm: Eight-Point Checklist for Minimizing Loss of Public Benefits for Plaintiffs Receiving a Settlement or a Judgment

You worked hard to achieve a good result for your client. Your client is now due – or already may have received – a settlement or a judgment to compensate them for some harm or loss. But will that recovery threaten your client’s eligibility for… Read More
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Highlights and Updates in Special Needs Planning

Planning for individuals with disabilities is typically referred to as “special needs planning.” Stetson University College of Law presented its 23rd annual National Conference on Special Needs Planning and Special Needs Trust in mid-October. Thi… Read More
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