Special Needs Planning FAQ
General Special Needs Planning FAQ
Q: What is special needs planning and why is it important?
A: Special needs planning helps ensure that a person with a disability has long-term financial and care arrangements in place while maintaining access to essential government benefits. Additionally special needs planning helps ensure a comfortable lifestyle. We provide education on this process and prepare the necessary legal documents.
Q: How does special needs planning differ from regular estate planning?
A: Special needs planning requires specific strategies to protect government benefits like SSI and Medicaid while also ensuring financial stability. We help families understand the laws involved and prepare the necessary documents.
Q: When should I start planning for my child with special needs?
A: The sooner, the better! Special needs planning isn’t just about legal documents—it includes understanding benefits, financial strategies, and long-term care planning. A parent never knows when they will no longer be there to care for their child. We provide education and guidance to help you get started at any stage.
Legal and Financial Considerations FAQ
Q: What is a special needs trust and do I need one?
A: A Special Needs Trust (SNT) is a legal tool that helps protect assets for a person with a disability while maintaining their eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid. There are several different kinds that are used for different situation. We can provide education on how these trusts work and prepare the legal documents needed to establish one.
Q: How does an ABLE account work, and should my child have one?
A: ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without affecting benefits like SSI and Medicaid. We provide education on the laws governing ABLE accounts so you can see how one may fit into your planning.
Our Services FAQ
Q: What services do you provide?
A: We provide education on special needs planning and prepare the legal documents needed to implement your plan. Our goal is to help families navigate the process with confidence.
Q: Do you handle benefits applications (SSI, Medicaid, etc.)?
A: No, we do not assist with filing benefits applications, but we provide information and resources to help you understand the process. For more information about SSI please visit SSA.gov.
Q: Do you provide legal or financial advice?
A: No, we are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice or financial recommendations. We are Certified Legal Document Preparers by the Arizona Supreme Court, which allows us to prepare legal documents and provide educational information about the law, but we do not offer legal opinions or recommendations. The information we provide should not be construed as legal advice.
Q: How much do your services cost?
A: We offer different service packages based on the level of planning and document preparation needed. Please contact us for details.
Q: Do you offer payment plans or sliding scale fees?
A: Yes! Our goal is to make planning accessible to anyone who wants a plan. Please reach out to discuss payment options.
I am not an attorney or financial advisor. Any information on this page is for educational purposes only and not to be construed as legal advice or recommendations. Please see my disclaimer page for more information.