What Other Benefits Can I Get With SSDI?
July 19, 2023
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal benefits program. Through SSDI, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides monthly monetary support for those who can no longer work because of long-term or permanent disabilities. Social Security Disability Benefits While SSDI can be an essential source of income for many individuals and families, it may only cover some needs. The SSA […]
Consequences of Not Using a Medicare Set-Aside Account
July 5, 2023
Those who obtain a workers’ compensation settlement for future medical expenses must create a Medicare Set-Aside (MSA) Account to preserve their eligibility for Medicare. This separate, interest-bearing account pays for medical costs related to the worker’s injury. After the funds are exhausted, Medicare provides coverage for medical fees related to the injury. Why You Should Create an […]
Charities May Now Be Named As SNT Remainder Beneficiaries
June 13, 2023
Many parents and families planning for the care of their loved one with special needs will consider setting up a special needs trust. (Special needs trusts are also often referred to as supplemental needs trusts and SNTs). These trusts allow assets to be left to a disabled or chronically ill person without disqualifying them for certain benefits, […]
What Can an SNT Pay for Without Affecting SSI or Medicaid?
June 1, 2023
Funds held in a properly drafted special needs trust (SNT) will not affect a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid recipient’s benefits. However, funds disbursed in a manner that violates SSI or Medicaid rules can impact these benefits. It is important to understand what an SNT can and cannot pay for in order to avoid this. What Is an […]
When Does a Person Lack Capacity in a Guardianship?
March 10, 2023
The guardianship of an adult, in which a judge appoints an individual to make choices for a person over 18, is appropriate when the adult lacks capacity. Capacity is a general legal term that refers to a person’s cognitive ability. For instance, when people lack capacity to make a will, they cannot execute a valid […]
Social Security Disability Benefits to Rise for 2023
January 11, 2023
The Social Security Administration has announced that its beneficiaries will see a significant increase – totaling nearly 9 percent – in their monthly Social Security checks come January 2023. This cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is the largest boost to Social Security benefits in more than 40 years. The increase for 2022 was 5.9 percent. Supplemental Security Income (SSI), […]
Qualifying for Disability Benefits Through Parent Work Record
January 4, 2023
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program primarily designed to aid people who have become disabled after having worked for a certain amount of time. Although the typical SSDI recipient has worked for a fairly long time before the onset of their disability, an adult who became disabled before turning 22 can also qualify […]
Supported Decision-Making as an Alternative to Guardianship
December 16, 2022
For some people with disabilities, a guardianship or conservatorship would be overly restrictive. Supported decision-making can be an alternative to unnecessary guardianships. It allows disabled people to get assistance with decisions while retaining autonomy. In supported decision-making, trusted persons can advise an individual with a disability, while the individual ultimately retains the final decision-making power […]
Accessory Dwelling Units Promote Independence Near Family
October 31, 2022
Many families of individuals with special needs want to foster their loved ones’ independence. Some may find that their loved one is happiest with a personal living space, as independent living offers greater autonomy. However, several barriers prevent many adults with special needs from living on their own. By building an Accessory Dwelling Unit, a […]