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The Benefits of Pooled Special Needs Trusts and How They Work
If you or a family member is receiving government benefits such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may have come across the term Pooled Special Needs Trust (PSNT). A PSNT is a trust that is intended to help people with disabilities keep their government benefits while also being able to use funds for certain expenses.
PSNTs come in two main varieties: third-party pooled trusts and first-party PSNTs, which are also known as self-settled special needs trusts. Third-party pooled trusts are usually established by family members or advocates of the person with a disability, and the funds are pooled with other beneficiaries to lower administrative expenses and expand investment possibilities. First-party PSNTs, on the other hand, are funded with the beneficiary’s own assets, typically through personal injury or workers’ compensation settlements, and are subject to Medicaid payback requirements upon the beneficiary’s death.
One of the primary benefits of a PSNT is that it allows the individual with a disability to access funds for certain expenses without jeopardizing their Medicaid benefits. An investment manager and trust administrator typically manage PSNTs, overseeing disbursement requests and ensuring that all expenses comply with Medicaid regulations.
PSNTs can cover a variety of expenses that are not covered by Medicaid or other government benefits, including dental work, transportation, home modifications, and even recreational activities like vacations. It is important to keep in mind that PSNTs cannot be used for basic living expenses like food, shelter, or utilities, as these are typically covered by government benefits. In addition, PSNTs cannot be used to pay family members for caregiving services, as this could be seen as a transfer of assets and could result in a penalty from Medicaid.
Another benefit of a PSNT is that it can provide peace of mind for both the individual with a disability and their family members. Having a trust in place to cover certain expenses can ease some of the financial pressure that comes with caring for someone with a disability. Moreover, PSNTs can help guarantee that the person with a disability can maintain their quality of life and independence, even as their care requirements evolve over time.
If you are considering setting up a PSNT for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to work with an experienced attorney who specializes in special needs planning. They can help ensure that the trust is set up properly and that all expenses are in compliance with Medicaid regulations. Moreover, an attorney can provide guidance on the possible tax consequences of establishing a PSNT and help structure the trust to optimize its advantages.
Choosing the appropriate trustee is another crucial consideration when establishing a PSNT. The trustee is tasked with managing the trust and ensuring that all disbursements adhere to the trust’s terms and Medicaid regulations. It is important to choose a trustee who has expertise in managing special needs trusts and who is familiar with the beneficiary’s specific requirements. A trustee can be an individual or a professional organization, such as a bank or a nonprofit organization that specializes in managing special needs trusts.