When I help parents with special needs estate planning, I tell them that when their child with I/DD turns 18 it is important to get them on Supplemental Security Benefits (SSI).  For 2025 that SSI cash benefit is $967.  Even if you can pay for everything she needs and she is still on your private health insurance, get her on SSI and full Medicaid now.  Just do it.  You may not realize what you are passing up otherwise.

Here’s the latest on ABLE accounts, my friends! 

If you have a 529 account for your child with disabilities, you have until year end to roll it over into an ABLE account.  The rollover must be complete before January 1, 2026.  The money still grows tax free, and it can still be used for college but in the ABLE account it can be used for a lot more.

In my work as a special needs planning attorney, I draft special needs trusts to benefit individuals on government benefits.   So of course, I need to know exactly the benefits being received.  When folks come into my office saying they don’t know what benefits they are receiving, just that it is “social security” or “disability” benefits, I need more information. 

If you are receiving SSI and you live in the home of another, even a family member, this is good news for you.  Social Security Administration has finalized a rule to help you keep more of your SSI check.