Adult with Special Needs

Legal planning for adults with special needs encompasses a wide range of important considerations to ensure their well-being, independence, and access to necessary support.


Some key areas to address include benefits planning, independence planning, housing options, healthcare decision-making, guardianship, Medicaid coverage, benefits eligibility, support needs, and financial planning.

  • Benefits Planning

    Involves understanding and maximizing the government benefits available to individuals with special needs, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. 


    This requires navigating complex eligibility criteria and ensuring that the individual's financial resources are managed appropriately to maintain eligibility while securing the necessary support.

  • Independence Planning

    Focuses on fostering self-sufficiency and autonomy for individuals with special needs. 


    This may involve exploring educational and vocational opportunities, life skills training, and employment options that align with the individual's abilities and aspirations.

  • Housing Options

    A critical aspect of planning for adults with special needs. It involves evaluating different living arrangements, such as independent living, supported housing, or group residences, to determine the most suitable and supportive environment for the individual.

  • Healthcare Planning

    Ensures that the individual has access to appropriate medical care, therapies, and support services. 


    It involves making decisions about healthcare providers, understanding medical coverage, and establishing healthcare proxies or powers of attorney to ensure ongoing decision-making in the event the individual is unable to do so independently.

  • Guardianship

    May be necessary in cases where the individual lacks the capacity to make important legal and financial decisions.


    It involves the appointment of a guardian who can make decisions on their behalf and advocate for their best interests.

  • Medicaid Coverage

    Crucial for individuals with special needs, as it can provide access to vital healthcare services and supports. 


    Planning for Medicaid involves understanding the eligibility criteria, navigating the application process, and ensuring ongoing compliance with program requirements.

  • Financial Planning

    Essential to ensure the individual's long-term financial security. 


    This may involve setting up special needs trusts, managing assets, and considering estate planning strategies to protect their financial well-being.

At our firm, we understand the complexities and nuances of legal planning for adults with special needs. We can provide guidance and expertise in navigating these areas, helping you develop a comprehensive plan that addresses the individual's unique needs and aspirations.


The importance of planning cannot be overstated. It provides peace of mind, safeguards the individual's rights and well-being, and ensures that they have the necessary resources and support to thrive. By working with our firm, you can access the expertise and resources needed to navigate the legal landscape, make informed decisions, and secure a bright and fulfilling future for your loved one with special needs.


Contact us today to learn more about how our firm can assist you in the legal planning process for adults with special needs.

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Check Out Our Special Needs Planning Blog Resources:

Navigating Special Needs Planning at 18: A Guide for Parents & Guardians

June 10, 2024
From financial considerations to legal matters and beyond, there are numerous factors to take into account to ensure your loved one receives the care and support they need as they transition into adulthood.

Guardianship for Individuals with Special Needs

August 14, 2023
For families of individuals with special needs, planning for their future and ensuring their well-being is of utmost importance. When considering guardianship for a loved one with special needs, it becomes crucial to find the delicate balance between safeguarding their privacy and independence while also ensuring their protection and care.

5 Things to Consider When Your Child with Disabilities Turns 18

May 12, 2023
As the parent of a child with special needs, your role as a parent becomes different when your child becomes a legal adult. Although your child may have some or all the same needs for assistance from you, your legal relationship with your child changes when your child turns age 18.
Planning For Children With Special Needs

Planning For Children With Special Needs

February 25, 2023
Special Needs Planning is a Lifelong Event: Working to get your child assessed to qualify for support programs, fighting to get benefits and finding therapists became a full-time job, and one that led to enormous costs, even with the family’s having good health insurance.
Estate Planning Considerations For Children With Special Needs

Estate Planning Considerations For Children With Special Needs

January 12, 2023
If your child or grandchild has special needs, one of your greatest concerns is ensuring that the child receives essential care and support throughout their life. While your inclination may be to give the child money or other assets through an inheritance, doing so may deprive the child of the ability to receive government assistance. Fortunately, a Special Needs Trust (SNT) can provide lifelong financial benefits for the child without affecting eligibility for government programs.

What Happens To My Disabled Adult Child if I Become Incapacitated or Pass?

November 7, 2022
Caring for an adult child with a disability in Illinois is often challenging in the best of circumstances. Many parents worry about what might happen to their child if the parents die or are otherwise unavailable to provide care. We will discuss some Special Needs Planning suggestions to benefit both you and your child.
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