In New York, families often seek financial security and peace of mind for their loved ones with disabilities. Supplemental Needs Trusts (SNTs) provide a reliable means of ensuring that the financial needs of individuals with disabilities are met without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits.
Purpose of Supplemental Needs Trusts:
SNTs serve the dual purpose of preserving a disabled person’s eligibility for government assistance programs while simultaneously providing them with financial resources for supplemental needs. These trusts allow families to supplement the public benefits received by a disabled individual without disqualifying them from essential programs such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Types of Supplemental Needs Trusts:
In New York, two primary types of SNTs exist: first-party and third-party trusts.
First-Party Supplemental Needs Trusts:
These trusts contain assets that belong to the disabled individual. The funds typically come from sources such as personal injury settlements, inheritances, or back payments from Social Security. First-party SNTs must include a “payback” provision, which mandates that the state be reimbursed for any Medicaid benefits provided upon the death of the beneficiary.
Third-Party Supplemental Needs Trusts:
These trusts are funded with assets from someone other than the disabled individual, often family members or friends. Unlike first-party SNTs, third-party trusts do not require a payback provision, meaning that any remaining funds can be distributed to other beneficiaries upon the disabled person’s death.
Establishing a Supplemental Needs Trust in New York:
An experienced attorney who specializes in trusts and estates should be consulted when establishing an SNT. They will assist in drafting the trust document, ensuring it adheres to the stringent legal requirements set forth by New York State. Additionally, a trustee must be selected to manage the assets within the trust. The trustee is responsible for making distributions in the best interest of the disabled beneficiary and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
Key Considerations:
When establishing an SNT, it’s essential to consider the following:
- Selecting a competent and reliable trustee is crucial to the successful management of the trust.
- Carefully outline the trust’s terms to prevent any misunderstandings or mismanagement of funds.
- Regularly review and update the trust to account for changes in the beneficiary’s needs, financial circumstances, or changes in the law.
Supplemental Needs Trusts offer a valuable solution for families seeking to secure the financial future of their loved ones with disabilities in New York. By working closely with an experienced attorney, families can ensure that their disabled family members have access to the financial resources they need without compromising their eligibility for government assistance