Archive for the
‘Life Planning’ Category

When a Beneficiary Requests a Trust Distribution What a Corporate Trustee Considers When a beneficiary asks for money from a trust, the request may seem simple. For a corporate trustee, it is a fiduciary decision. The trustee must follow the trust document, honor the settlor’s intent, treat beneficiaries fairly, and protect trust assets for their […]

Shared Stewardship: Planning for Life’s Transitions — Not Just What Happens After Death When families begin planning for the future of a loved one with disabilities or long-term support needs, the conversation often starts with a single question: Who should serve as trustee? No doubt this is an important decision. Trustees carry significant legal and […]

Taxation of Special Needs Trusts Key Planning Considerations for 2026 Administering a special needs trust means more than following the rules. It’s about making thoughtful decisions that balance taxes with long-term benefit protection. Special needs trusts (SNTs) are designed to do something very specific: Preserve assets while protecting access to means-tested benefits. But from a […]

What Is a Trust Protector? When families create a trust, they name a trustee to manage the assets and carry out the instructions in the trust document. Sometimes, they also name a trust protector. A trust protector is a person or company given specific powers to make sure the trust continues to work as intended. […]

Supported Decision-Making: Help Without Taking Control Supported Decision-Making (SDM) is a way for people with disabilities to make their own decisions with help from people they trust. The key idea is simple: Needing help does not mean losing the right to choose. SDM supports independence, dignity, and participation in everyday life. What Is Supported Decision-Making? […]

A special needs trust is an important tool, but a complete estate plan requires more to fully protect your loved one’s future. In this video, we cover essential planning tips to ensure long-term financial security and care.

Trusts play a vital role in protecting assets and ensuring your wishes are carried out, but understanding how they work can be complex. In this video, we break down the key responsibilities of trustees and how trusts can benefit you and your loved ones.

Understanding how governmental benefits interact with special needs trusts is crucial for securing a stable future for individuals with disabilities. This video breaks down the essentials to help you navigate these financial tools effectively.