Special Needs Trusts refers to an Estate Planning technique used to shelter assets for a Special Needs Person in a way that does not interrupt the person’s government benefits. Special needs trusts, also known as supplemental needs trusts, are an essential tool in planning for the future of your disabled children or ailing spouse.

A special needs trust can benefit any family member and/or children with disabilities by protecting assets and retaining public benefits, because the funds they hold are not considered income for the purpose of eligibility for benefits. The disabled person is called the “beneficiary” and the person or institution that manages the assets is called the “trustee.” Once the trust is set up, a variety of assets can be put into a trust fund, such as cash, stocks, bonds, and real estate investments.