Plan for Your Loved One's Future with Confidence

If you’re supporting a loved one with physical or mental impairments, you may have wondered, "How can I save for their future without risking the benefits they depend on?  In this panel, our specialists discussed important planning considerations for families, including preserving government benefits, understanding planning tools, navigating trustee responsibilities, and accessing valuable advocacy resources.




Explore the resources below, including:

  • A recording and review of the live event and accompanying review
  • A downloadable guide covering key considerations for Special Needs Trusts 
  • Access to our Special Needs Trusts team for answers to your specific situation 
 
 

Panel Key Takeaways:

  • Building relationships with healthcare providers, schools, support organizations, and parent networks helps families become stronger advocates for their loved ones.
  • Special Needs Trusts are designed to supplement, not replace, government benefits and can fund quality-of-life expenses.
  • Understanding the difference between First-Party and Third-Party Trusts is important, particularly regarding funding sources and Medicaid payback requirements.
  • Selecting the right trustee is critical because of their essential role in managing the trust and making informed decisions that help protect the beneficiary’s long-term financial well-being and eligibility for public benefits.
  • ABLE Accounts can complement a special needs planning strategy by offering tax-free saving tools.
 
 

Review the Guide:

  • Special Needs Trusts help provide financial support for individuals with disabilities while preserving eligibility for important government benefits such as SSI and Medicaid.
  • Trust funds can be used to enhance quality of life by covering expenses such as specialized care, therapies, education, caregiving support, recreation, and other needs not covered by benefits. 
  • When paired with an ABLE account, families can create a flexible plan that supports long-term financial security and greater independence for a loved one with special needs.

Questions About Supplemental and Special Needs Trusts?

Whether you’re just getting started or reviewing an existing plan, Susan, Scott, and Frank can assist you in exploring strategies to support your loved one’s future.
 
 
Rockland Trust Susan Daileader, CFP®, CLTC VP, Advanced Planning Consultant
Susan Daileader, CFP®, CLTC
VP & Financial  Consultant
Services Offered: Financial Consulting
Contact Susan
Scott Scales serves as Rockland Trust FVP, Senior Fiduciary Officer.
Scott Scales
First Vice President & Senior Fiduciary Officer
Contact Scott
Rockland Trust Frank Mulé, JD
VP, Estate Settlement & Trust Termination Officer
Frank Mulé, JD
VP, Estate Settlement & Trust Termination Officer
Contact Frank
Not insured by FDIC disclosure for IMG pages.