Disability and supplemental needs
Protection that preserves more than assets
Why it matters
Protecting a disabled person without jeopardizing eligibility for means-tested government benefits requires careful planning to coordinate public and private resources, and provide trusted people with clear guidance for managing finances and supporting the beneficiary throughout their lifetime.
Who needs it
Individuals and families planning for a child or adult with a disability, chronic illness, or other condition that may affect long-term independence or eligibility for public benefits. This planning may be appropriate if you:
Have a child or family member receiving SSI, Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits
Want to leave an inheritance without disrupting benefit eligibility
Need to protect a beneficiary’s existing assets or settlement proceeds
Are concerned about who will manage assets and make decisions in the future
Want to coordinate planning among parents, grandparents, and other relatives
Need to evaluate guardianship, supported decision-making, or other protective arrangements
Want to supplement—not replace—the beneficiary’s public benefits
Need a long-term plan for housing, care, education, employment, and quality of life
What is included
In addition to the instruments included in our core packages, your plan may include:
Evaluation of the beneficiary’s circumstances, resources, and anticipated needs
Third-party supplemental needs trust planning
First-party supplemental needs trust planning, when appropriate
Supplemental needs provisions within a will or revocable living trust
Review of beneficiary designations and proposed inheritances
Guidance for family members who wish to make gifts or leave assets to the beneficiary
Trustee selection and succession planning
Coordination with guardianship or supported decision-making arrangements
Review of ABLE account planning opportunities
Coordination with financial advisors, care managers, benefits professionals, and other members of the beneficiary’s support team
Helps preserve eligibility for means-tested government benefits
Protects inheritances, gifts, settlements and other assets.
Provides a framework for using those resources to support the person’s care, independence, and quality of life.
How it serves you
“We had the best experience with Laura & her team. They were extremely accommodating and efficient with scheduling, answering emails, and any questions we had. This was our first time estate planning for our family and Fischer Harbage made it seamless! I got off each call with her feeling less overwhelmed and knowledgable! We would highly recommend choosing Fischer Harbage to work with!”