Practice Areas
Special Needs Planning
Why You May Need a Special Needs Trust
If you want to provide for a child or loved one with special needs, it’s essential to plan carefully. A well-intentioned gift or inheritance—even a modest one—could unintentionally disqualify them from receiving crucial public benefits such as Medicaid, housing assistance, or job training programs.
Fortunately, there’s a proven and compassionate solution: the Special Needs Trust (SNT).
Also known as a Supplemental Needs Trust, an SNT allows you to set aside funds for your loved one without affecting their eligibility for government benefits. Managed by a trustee of your choosing, the trust can be used to pay for services and experiences that enhance quality of life—such as therapies, education, travel, recreation, and more.
Working with Michael Greenberg
Attorney Michael Greenberg will guide you through the two main types of Special Needs Trusts:
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First-party SNTs: Funded with the beneficiary’s own assets, such as a settlement from a personal injury or medical malpractice case.
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Third-party SNTs: provided by someone else - typically a parent, grandparent, or other family member.
One significant benefit of a third-party SNT: when the beneficiary passes away, any remaining funds can go to other family members or a charitable cause of your choice—instead of being claimed by the government.
Michael will also assist you in selecting a trustee and naming one or more successor trustees, while building in flexible options for future appointments. He will ensure you have a plan to review and update the trust periodically or after major life events.
Complimentary Conversation
Would you like to care for a loved one in a way that is both deeply compassionate and legally sound?
Contact Michael Greenberg today to schedule a free 45-minute consultation on how to protect and provide for a family member with special needs.