Special Needs Planning

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Article
Lessons from the Hawthorn Case: Special Needs Settlement Planning for Minors
Learn how pooled special needs trusts and smart settlement planning protected benefits in the Hawthorn case and secured stability for minors with disabilities.
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Article
Understanding the d4A First Party Special Needs Trust
Learn about First Party Special Needs Trusts and how Michigan Law Center, led by expert Michele Fuller, can secure benefits and protect your loved one’s future.
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Article
SSDI vs SSI Benefits: Key Differences You Need to Know
Understand the key differences between SSDI and SSI benefits. Learn about eligibility, funding, and how an SSI attorney can help manage these vital programs.
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Article
Why You Should Retain An Attorney When Applying for SSI Benefits
Discover how an SSI attorney can help manage your Supplemental Security Income benefits. Learn about SSI eligibility, SSDI vs SSI, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Senior couple meeting with special needs planning advisorA parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Article
Power of Attorney vs Guardianship for Adults with Disabilities
Understand power of attorney vs guardianship for adults with disabilities in Michigan. Learn key differences and join our webinar for expert insights.
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Article
Key Differences Between Guardianship and Power of Attorney
Learn the key differences between guardianship and power of attorney, and which to choose. Make informed legal decisions with insights tailored to your needs.
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Article
New Rules for Special Needs Trusts: What You Need to Know
Stay informed about the new rules for special needs trusts. Learn about key updates, avoid special needs trust violations, and ensure compliance.
Multiracial couple with daughter. All are touching the baby bump of the pregnant mother.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Article
Planning for the Future With a Special Needs Trust Attorney
Learn how a special needs trust attorney can guide you through the process of planning for your loved one's future with a special needs trust.
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Article
What Is a Special Needs Trust? A Comprehensive Guide
Learn what a special needs trust is, how it works, and why it’s vital for special needs planning. Discover the steps to set one up and how an attorney can help.
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Webinar
Protecting Public Benefits After a Settlement: Legal Strategies for Individuals with Disabilities
Safeguard SSI, Medicaid upon settlement or inheritance. Learn strategies to preserve benefits and ensure financial security for individuals with disabilities.
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Webinar
Q&A with SSI Attorney Erika Riggs
Don't miss experts Michele Fuller & Erika Riggs for a Q&A on special needs planning, disability benefits, SSI rules, and safeguarding your financial future.
Two students, one with special needs in a wheelchair, and one teacher smile while using computers.
Webinar
Top Special Needs Planning Mistakes
Discover how special needs trusts protect benefits while providing fiduciary, caregiving, and asset management support. Learn to avoid common pitfalls and plan effectively for loved ones with disabilities.
A young happy man with Down syndrome with his mentoring friend celebrating success indoors at school.
Webinar
Gifting to Persons with Disabilities Using an ABLE Account
Planning gifts for a loved one with disabilities requires careful consideration to avoid impacting their eligibility for government benefits. In this webinar, we will explore how ABLE accounts can be a powerful special needs planning tool for gifting to individuals with disabilities.
Talking, lawyer or old couple with will, contract or documents for life insurance papers or probate. Plan, advisor or married elderly clients signing paperwork, trust form or will agreement.
Webinar
Special Needs Probate 101
Learn the fundamentals of probate in Michigan with a focus on individuals with disabilities. This session will cover key topics such as estate administration for special needs heirs, guardianships for individuals with developmental disabilities, conservatorships, and the vital role of special needs trusts.
Two young boys and their father and mother converse in a bright apartment. Father is in a wheelchair.
Webinar
Preparing For and Managing Supplemental Security Income Benefits
Navigating Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can be complex, but understanding the process is crucial for securing the financial well-being of a loved one with special needs.
An elderly mother hugging her grown daughter as they sit outside in front of fall foliage
Webinar
Guardianship vs. Power of Attorney
Deciding between guardianship and power of attorney is an important decision that can significantly impact the care and protection of a loved one. In this webinar, we will guide you through the key differences between these two legal tools and explain when each is appropriate.