Practice Areas

• Medicaid
• Living Trusts
• Estate Administration and Probate
• Asset Protection
• Veterans Benefits
• Special Needs Trust

Blog

Special Needs Trust

• IMPORTANT REPORT EVERY SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILY MUST KNOW ABOUT ESTATE PLANNING
• Planning for your autistic child’s future can bring peace of mind
• Five estate planning mistakes made by parents with special needs children
• Could you benefit from a Special Needs Trust?

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News

• Many special needs children lack plans for lifetime of care...
  Posted on 4/17/2009
• Importance of Special Needs Trusts Highlighted by Non-Profit...
  Posted on 3/4/2009

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Library

Special Needs Trust

• Part 11 of 12 - Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning
• Part 12 of 12 - Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning
• Part 9 of 12 Facts Every Special Needs Family Must Know About Estate Planning
• Part 7 of 12 - Facts Every Special Needs Family Should Know About Estate Planning
• Part 8 of 12 - FACTS EVERY SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILY MUST KNOW

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there a difference between a special needs trust and a supplemental needs trust?

A: Yes.  Both types of trusts can be established to benefit a person with disability.  Both can be set up to supplement government benefits, and both are irrevocable.  The primary difference between a special needs trust and a supplemental needs trust is how each is funded.

A supplemental needs trust is funded by the disabled individual.  For example, if the individual receives money from a lawsuit or settlement, or if they receive an inheritance, the funds can be placed in a supplemental needs trust. 

A special needs trust is funded by assets from other people, like parents or grandparents.  For example, parents can set up a special needs trust for their disabled child, the intent of which is to ensure the child is cared for after the parents die.

An estate planning attorney familiar with supplemental and special needs trusts in Pennsylvania can explain the differences and limitations further.

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questions

Special Needs Trust

• Is there a difference between a special needs trust and a supplemental needs trust?

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