A special needs trust (SNT) is a financial tool designed to provide for individuals with disabilities without affecting their eligibility for government benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. These programs have strict asset and income limits, meaning direct financial gifts or inheritances can disqualify beneficiaries from receiving essential support. By placing funds in an SNT, families can ensure that their loved one’s financial security while maintaining access to necessary benefits.

Allowable Expenses for a Special Needs Trust

Trust distributions must follow specific rules to avoid impacting eligibility. Understanding what an SNT can and cannot pay for helps trustees manage funds appropriately and ensure that they enhance the beneficiary’s quality of life. As such, planning should use special needs trust funds to supplement government benefits, not replace them.

How to Support Housing and Living Arrangements

While an SNT can pay for housing costs such as rent or mortgage payments, doing so may reduce SSI benefits because the Social Security Administration considers it "in-kind support."

You can avoid reducing cash benefits by paying for housing-related expenses instead. These include accessibility modifications, utilities, taxes and insurance.

Paying for Medical and Health-Related Expenses

Medicaid covers many healthcare services. However, an SNT can pay for additional medical care not covered by government programs. Some of these gaps in Medicaid that an SNT can cover include:

• Out-of-pocket medical costs and copayments
• Specialized therapies (occupational, speech, physical)
• Dental and vision care
• Alternative treatments (acupuncture, chiropractic care)
• Medical devices and equipment (hearing aids, prosthetics)

Funding Personal Care and Support Services

An SNT is broadly clear to fund personal assistance that improves daily living for the beneficiary. These include in-home caregivers and companions, respite care, meal delivery and transportation services.

Recreation, Travel, and Social Activities

Quality of life extends beyond necessities. A special needs trust can pay for activities that promote personal enjoyment and social engagement, including:

• Vacations, travel expenses and accommodations
• Membership fees for gyms or clubs
• Hobbies such as art, music, or sports lessons
• Concert, theater and event tickets

Education and Vocational Training

Many individuals with disabilities benefit from continued education and skill development. SNT funds can cover

• Tuition for private schools or specialized education programs
• Job training and certification courses
• Tutoring and life skills coaching
• Assistive technology for learning

Transportation and Vehicle Expenses

Reliable transportation is essential for independence. SNT funds can be used to:

• Purchase or modify a vehicle for accessibility
• Cover gas, insurance and maintenance costs
• Pay for rideshare services, taxis, or public transportation passes

Assistive Technology and Communication Devices

Technology plays a significant role in supporting individuals with disabilities. SNTs can fund:

• Computers, tablets and adaptive software
• Wheelchairs and mobility aids
• Smart home devices for accessibility (voice-activated systems)
• Cell phones and internet services

What a Special Needs Trust Cannot Pay

Some expenses can jeopardize government benefits if paid directly from an SNT, including:

• Cash gifts to the beneficiary: Direct cash withdrawals may be counted as income and reduce benefits.
• Groceries and food expenses: SNTs can only cover these costs in specific circumstances.
• Direct rent or mortgage payments (reduces SSI benefits if improperly structured)
• Basic medical care covered by Medicaid

Trustees should work with a special needs planning attorney to avoid penalties and ensure that funds are managed appropriately.

Structuring SNT Distributions Properly

Because direct payments to the beneficiary can affect government benefits, funds from an SNT should be paid directly to service providers, vendors, or businesses instead of being given in cash to the individual. For example, rather than providing the beneficiary money for a new wheelchair, the trustee should pay the wheelchair provider directly.

Why Proper Management of an SNT Matters

Managing an SNT incorrectly can lead to Medicaid disqualification, SSI benefit reductions, or unnecessary taxation. To ensure compliance, trustees should:

• Keep detailed records of all trust transactions.
• Consult an estate planning attorney before making large purchases.
• Work with a financial advisor to maximize the trust’s longevity.

Protecting a Loved One’s Financial Future

A special needs trust is one of the most effective ways to provide long-term financial security for individuals with disabilities. By ensuring that funds are appropriately used and distributed wisely, families can enhance their loved one’s quality of life while safeguarding their eligibility for critical government benefits.

Key Takeaways

• Enhances Quality of Life: An SNT covers non-essential expenses like education, travel and recreation without affecting government benefits.
• Healthcare and Housing Considerations: The trust can fund medical treatments, assistive devices and home modifications but must be cautious with direct rent payments.
• Proper Distribution Is Essential: Funds should be paid directly to providers rather than given to the beneficiary as cash.
• Avoids Benefit Reductions: Misuse of SNT funds can disqualify beneficiaries from Medicaid and SSI.
• Professional Guidance Is Recommended: An estate planning attorney can ensure proper administration and compliance with benefit eligibility rules.

Reference: Special Needs Answers (Oct. 30th, 2024) “What Can My Special Needs Trust Pay for Without Affecting My Disability Benefits?”