Special Needs planning
Reducing the stress of planning for around disability.
Integrated Special Needs planning*
Disability and illness present a wide range of challenges for the people who are ill or disabled and those around them. Many of these difficulties are either financial or impede someone’s ability to work with financial professionals.
We help families of those with disabilities plan for their own financial future while advising on and integrating the work they are doing or have done with their estate planner, case manager, or other professionals.
Special needs planning isn’t just for families planning future needs for loved ones with disabilities; we also help adults dealing with mental or physical challenges. Whether this is mental illness, learning disabilities, neurodivergence, physical disabilities, or chronic disease, we navigate the ever-changing waters with you.
When working with individuals with disabilities or illnesses, potential government benefits are only a tiny piece of the puzzle. We also consider where else their disability or illness impacts their financial plan. Adults with chronic conditions frequently have challenges relating to topics such as insurance, career development, medical expenses, and cash flow. We have experience navigating these challenges with our clients and finding a less conventional path forward.
* “Special Needs Planning” is the term used in the industry for this work. We are aware that preferred language has evolved beyond the phrase “special needs,” and we use alternative language where we can.
We are members of the Academy of Special Needs Planners, an organization of professionals devoted to helping families with special needs navigate the twists and turns of the financial and legal ramifications of disability.
Aspects of Special Needs Planning
Special Needs Planning looks different for everyone and every family. These are some examples of topics we frequently cover.
Tax Planning and Preparation
Tax planning is an integral part of any financial plan. Frequently, there are tax planning opportunities and deductions available to help offset the costs of disability. At tax time, we work closely with your accountant to ensure that you don’t leave money on the table.
Legal & Estate Planning
We work with you and your special needs attorney to ensure that the inheritance you leave doesn’t cause your heirs to lose their necessary government benefits. As your child reaches adulthood, we also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of guardianship and alternative approaches.
Long term goals
When planning for your retirement and other goals, we integrate the goals and dreams of your loved ones with disabilities. We balance your retirement goals with a legacy plan to support your loved ones for their lifetimes.
Government Benefits
The government provides a multitude of benefits and services for those with disabilities. Many of these benefits require recipients to have limited income or assets. We help you navigate these systems best use them to improve the quality of life for you and your loved ones.
Education and Vocation
Special education looks different for every student. Most people with disabilities thrive in public schools, while others benefit from specialized schools. We discuss how you can advocate for your child to help them thrive. As they transition to adulthood, we discuss different ways to achieve fulfilling employment.
Quality of life planning
Planning for the future and current needs of those with disabilities goes beyond covering financial needs. From vocation to recreation to living arrangements, we discuss the plans, goals, and dreams for you and your loved ones. We work with you to help you find the best path for you and your family.
Flexible planning
We want the work we do together to make life easier, not harder. When working directly with someone with a disability, we frequently adapt our meeting and communication styles to fit your needs. Examples include spreading out meetings to reduce stress and changing our meeting format.
Insurance
Insurance is an important part of financial planning. An adult with a disability may struggle to obtain insurance to help protect them and their families. Frequently, the parents of a child with a disability have an increased need for life insurance to help fund their special needs trust. We help you plan for these and other insurance needs.
