What are Special Needs Benefits?

When planning for an individual with special needs, consideration must be given to the individual’s independence and quality of life. Special needs benefits can be in the form of assistance provided by government programs, such as Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, and Medicare. In addition, there are many community organizations that devote themselves and their funds to… Read More »

Is your disabled child maximizing his or her Social Security benefits?

In my many years of practice, I have found that not every parent is aware of all of the benefits to which their disabled child may be entitled.  Social Security has additional benefits available to Disabled Adult Children (DAC) who were found to be disabled prior to the age of 22. Qualifications In order to… Read More »

On Air with Deanna M. Eble

Special Needs Planning Deanna M, Eble joined Hilary Topper on her talk show, Hilary Topper on Air.  During this podcast, Deanna discusses some of the hurdles of raising a child with special needs. Many parents are inundated with information from all different sources encouraging a guardianship for their child. Guardianship is not the only option… Read More »

FAQ1: What is the difference between a First Party Special Needs Trust and Third Party Special Needs Trust?

Frequently Asked Question #1: What is the difference between a First Party Special Needs Trust and Third Party Special Needs Trust? Several factors should be considered when determining whether a First Party Special Needs Trust or a  Third Party Special Needs Trust should be utilized when developing the appropriate plan for a beneficiary with special… Read More »

Should You Disinherit a Family Member Because They are Receiving Some Kind of Government Benefits?

One of the most frustrating things as a Special Needs planning attorney is to have someone in my office doing planning and they tell me that they need to disinherit a family member because they are receiving some kind of government benefits.  Their mindset is that they are looking out for that loved one, but… Read More »

Upcoming Webinar on “How Decisions Are Made: Guardianship”

Webinar – How Decisions Are Made: Guardianship Date: May 31, 2018 Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Location: Your Computer, Phone or Tablet Join Partner, Eric J. Einhart for this Free Educational Webinar. Please register for How Decisions Are Made: Guardianship on May 31, 2018 7:00 PM EDT at: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1667398779208221441 Attend this free webinar on:… Read More »

Can the transfer exemption to a disabled child, under the Medicaid laws, still be utilized if a disability determination was never made?

Under current law, certain transfers of assets by a Medicaid applicant or recipient do not result in any transfer penalties. Any asset of any value or type can be transferred without penalty to a disabled child of any age. The law allows for transfers to the applicant’s child who is certified blind or disabled. The… Read More »

24th Annual Theresa Awards!

We look forward to seeing you on Friday! There is still time to register for the 24th Annual Theresa Awards Dinner. Please call Alyssa if you have questions regarding the Theresa Awards Dinner at:  516-432-0200 or alyssa@tapany.org We are still accepting donations of raffle baskets or restaurant certificates. Click Here to Purchase Tickets   Click Here to Purchase… Read More »

What Is An “ABLE” Account?

Are you looking for a way to put away money to pay for expenses of a loved one with disabilities?  Then you should consider creating a New York “ABLE” account.  “ABLE” stands for “Achieving a Better Life Experience”. To qualify for NY ABLE, the eligible individual must be a New York resident. There are two ways to… Read More »

Does Social Security Recognize a Power of Attorney?

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are incredibly important for many senior citizens and individuals with special needs. It can be devastating if there is a disruption in these benefits of any kind. In order to avoid disruption or mitigate any issues regarding these federal payments, it is important to make sure that… Read More »