Special Needs Trusts Attorney Houston
West and West, LLP – Providing Financial Security for Families in Houston with Special Needs Trusts
At West and West, LLP, we understand the challenges families in Houston face when planning for the future of a loved one with disabilities or special needs. Ensuring that your loved one’s financial security is preserved while maintaining eligibility for essential government benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a crucial step in protecting their well-being.
Our experienced attorneys specialize in creating Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) for families throughout Houston, providing the legal guidance needed to safeguard assets and ensure your loved one continues to receive the support they need. Whether you are looking to create a trust for a child, spouse, or family member, we are here to help you design a solution that works.
Why Houston Families Choose West and West, LLP
📍 Serving Houston with Compassionate, Client-Focused Service
We proudly serve families throughout Houston, offering personalized legal services to help families protect their loved ones’ financial futures and ensure they remain eligible for critical government benefits.
⚖ Expertise in Disability Law and Special Needs Planning
Our attorneys are well-versed in the complexities of disability law, including Special Needs Trusts. We offer thorough legal advice to help families navigate the process and make informed decisions that will benefit their loved ones in the long term.
🔑 Tailored Special Needs Trusts for Your Family
At West and West, LLP, we know that every family has unique needs. We take the time to understand your situation and create a Special Needs Trust that is specifically tailored to your loved one’s circumstances and your family’s goals.
The Benefits of Special Needs Trusts for Families in Houston
✅ Preservation of Government Benefits
A Special Needs Trust ensures that your loved one’s eligibility for means-tested government benefits like Medicaid and SSI remains intact, even as they benefit from additional assets held in the trust.
✅ Enhanced Quality of Life
Trust funds can be used to cover expenses not provided by government assistance, such as medical care, therapy, housing, education, transportation, and recreation. These additional resources help enhance your loved one’s quality of life.
✅ Protection of Assets
A Special Needs Trust safeguards your loved one’s assets from mismanagement, misuse, or exploitation. The trust ensures that funds are used solely for the benefit of the individual with disabilities.
✅ Peace of Mind for Families
By setting up a Special Needs Trust, families in Houston can rest assured knowing that their loved one’s financial future is secure, and their needs will be met over time without jeopardizing their eligibility for vital public benefits.
Types of Special Needs Trusts We Offer for Houston Residents
✅ Third-Party Special Needs Trust
This trust is established by a third party (such as a parent or grandparent) using their own assets to benefit the individual with disabilities. After the beneficiary’s death, any remaining funds can pass to other beneficiaries designated by the trust’s creator.
✅ First-Party Special Needs Trust (d4A Trust)
Created with assets owned by the individual with disabilities, such as from an inheritance or personal injury settlement, this type of trust is subject to Medicaid payback requirements after the beneficiary’s death.
✅ Pooled Special Needs Trust
A pooled special needs trust is managed by a nonprofit organization. It pools the funds of multiple beneficiaries for investment purposes, while maintaining individual accounts for each beneficiary.
Our Process for Creating Special Needs Trusts
✅ Initial Consultation
We begin by having an in-depth conversation to understand your loved one’s needs, goals, and financial situation, ensuring we create a trust that aligns with your family’s unique objectives.
✅ Trust Design and Drafting
Once we understand your needs, we design a Special Needs Trust that complies with all applicable laws, ensures eligibility for government benefits, and fits your loved one’s requirements.
✅ Review and Approval
We review the trust document with you to make sure it meets your intentions and makes any necessary adjustments to ensure it accurately reflects your goals.
✅ Trust Funding and Administration
After the trust is finalized, we assist with funding it and provide guidance on how to properly administer it, including making distributions and meeting reporting requirements.
✅ Ongoing Support
We offer ongoing support to help ensure the trust continues to meet your loved one’s evolving needs, adjusting the trust as necessary to keep up with life changes and legal requirements.
Common Questions About Special Needs Trusts
Can a Special Needs Trust pay for housing and living expenses?
Yes, funds from a Special Needs Trust can be used for a wide range of expenses, including housing, utilities, food, transportation, medical care, and more.
Can a beneficiary have more than one Special Needs Trust?
Yes, it is possible for a beneficiary to have multiple Special Needs Trusts, each serving a different purpose or funded by different sources.
What happens to the trust funds after the beneficiary’s death?
The disposition of the remaining funds depends on the type of trust and the specific instructions in the trust document. For a third-party trust, remaining funds may pass to other designated beneficiaries. For first-party trusts, Medicaid may require payback for any benefits provided.
Contact Us for Your Special Needs Trust Consultation
Ensure your loved one’s financial future is secure with a Special Needs Trust from West and West, LLP. We are here to guide you through the process and provide the protection your family needs.
📞 Call Us Today: (713) 222-9378
📧 Email: west@westandwest.com
📍 Visit Us: 3818 Fox Meadow Lane, Pasadena, TX
Protect your loved one’s future today by contacting us to create a Special Needs Trust tailored to your family’s unique needs.
