The question of whether a special needs trust (SNT) can fund customized planner systems for time management is nuanced, yet often quite practical. While seemingly a small detail in the grand scheme of an SNT, funding tools that support independence and daily living skills falls squarely within the permissible uses of many trusts. SNTs are designed to supplement, not replace, government benefits like Social Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Therefore, any expenditure must not jeopardize those benefits. Generally, items that enhance a beneficiary’s quality of life and ability to manage their day-to-day activities, without significantly increasing their income or resources, are permissible. A well-chosen planner system, whether digital or physical, can be categorized as such—a tool for self-management, not a source of wealth. According to recent statistics, approximately 1 in 5 adults experience a disability that impacts their daily functioning, highlighting the potential need for tools like these.
What exactly can a special needs trust pay for?
A special needs trust, carefully drafted by an estate planning attorney like Steve Bliss, can cover a broad range of expenses beneficial to the beneficiary. This includes, but isn’t limited to, therapies, recreational activities, education, and even personal care items. The key is that the expense must enhance the beneficiary’s life *without* disqualifying them from needs-based government assistance. For example, funding a specialized planner that helps a beneficiary manage appointments, tasks, and medication schedules – tasks they might otherwise struggle with – aligns with the trust’s purpose. It’s important to remember that SNTs typically have a trustee who is responsible for approving expenses and ensuring they adhere to the trust document and relevant regulations. Approximately 65% of special needs trusts are funded with a lump sum inheritance, necessitating careful management of resources to ensure long-term sustainability.
Could purchasing a planner system be considered an “unsupported expense”?
The concern that a planner might be deemed an “unsupported expense” is valid but often easily addressed. Some trustees might initially hesitate, viewing it as a non-essential item. However, consider a scenario: a young adult with autism spectrum disorder struggles with executive functioning skills – planning, organizing, and initiating tasks. A customized planner, perhaps with visual aids and simplified language, could be crucial for fostering independence and allowing them to participate more fully in community life. It’s about demonstrating to the trustee – and potentially to a Medicaid caseworker during a review – that the planner isn’t simply a luxury, but a *necessary tool* for managing daily life. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows for certain expenses that improve quality of life without affecting benefits, and a planner, when used therapeutically, can often fall into this category.
I remember Mrs. Gable, a client’s mother, who was initially hesitant…
I recall a situation with Mrs. Gable, whose son, David, had Down syndrome. She was concerned about using trust funds for something as “simple” as a planner. David was bright but struggled with keeping track of his volunteer schedule and appointments. She feared Medicaid might view it as an unnecessary expense. We discussed how a visual planner, specifically designed for individuals with cognitive differences, could empower David to take more ownership of his life and reduce his reliance on constant supervision. We documented the recommendation from his occupational therapist, explaining how the planner was an integral part of his self-management strategy. It wasn’t about lavish spending; it was about investing in a tool that fostered independence. Mrs. Gable, reassured by the clarity of the justification, approved the purchase, and David thrived, proudly managing his own schedule.
Then there was Mr. Henderson, a situation averted by proactive planning…
Conversely, I also recall Mr. Henderson, whose daughter, Emily, had cerebral palsy. Emily’s trust was established years ago, but her mother hadn’t anticipated the need for a structured planning system as Emily transitioned into adulthood. Emily began to feel overwhelmed by managing her part-time job, therapy appointments, and social activities. Her quality of life suffered, and she became increasingly dependent on her mother. By revisiting the trust document and proactively requesting approval for a customized planner and some coaching sessions, we were able to quickly address the issue. The planner gave Emily a sense of control, boosted her confidence, and significantly improved her overall well-being. This highlighted the importance of having a flexible trust document and a trustee who understands the beneficiary’s evolving needs. Approximately 40% of special needs trusts require amendments to address changing circumstances, reinforcing the need for ongoing review and adaptation.
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About Steve Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is Temecula Probate Law. The Law Firm Of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is a Temecula Estate Planning Attorney. Steve Bliss is an experienced probate attorney. Steve Bliss is an Estate Planning Lawyer. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Steve Bliss Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Steve Bliss Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Steve Bliss Law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate. Call Steve Bliss Law Today for estate planning, trusts and probate.
My skills are as follows:
● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.
● Estate Planning Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.
● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.
● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.
● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.
● Free consultation.
Services Offered:
estate planning
living trust
revocable living trust
family trust
wills
irrevocable trust
Map To Steve Bliss Law in Temecula:
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Address:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 223-7000
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “What is probate and how can I avoid it?”
Or “How can payable-on-death accounts help avoid probate?”
or “What are the disadvantages of a living trust?
or even: “Does my spouse have to file bankruptcy with me?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.