Managing Special Needs Trusts

    The Special Needs Trust Administration Manual: A Guide for Trustees, is a valuable reference guide for anyone who is managing a special needs trust for a person with disabilities. In an uncomplicated, user-friendly way, it explains the rules that govern Special Needs Trusts and how those rules relate to the many complicated government benefit programs that assist people with disabilities.

In clear, easy to understand language, the authors (all attorneys experienced in guiding trustees through the complex rules of Special Needs Trusts) explain how a trustee can use trust funds to meet the medical, recreation, and transportation needs of a person with disabilities without risking the benefits of government programs such as SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Section 8 housing. The authors give useful advice and provide many concrete examples.

Answers common questions such as:

• What are my responsibilities to the disabled beneficiary? Can I spend money for a car, trip, or gift?

• Can I buy a house or condominium, and if so, who should own the property?

• What expenses can I safely pay without risking SSI benefits?

• How do I open a bank account?

• Does the trust need its own taxpayer identification number?

• What happens if I need to resign?

Although the Manual explains how federal laws and regulations are applied in Massachusetts, it can be useful throughout the United States. Massachusetts laws, especially in respect to Medicaid, may differ significantly from other states’ laws. Trustees outside Massachusetts should work with a local attorney who can guide them through the standards and practices in their state.

The Special Needs Trust Administration Manual is a welcome addition to any disabilities library.

To purchase the Manual, please go to: DisabilitiesBooks.com

Stanley D. Klein, Ph D, Series Editor

People with Disabilities Press

Director

(617) 879-0397