The question of whether a special needs trust (SNT) can fund custom-built adaptive furniture is a common one, and the answer is generally yes, with careful consideration and adherence to the trust’s terms and applicable regulations. SNTs are specifically designed to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities without disqualifying them from needs-based public benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. However, simply having the funds isn’t enough; the purchases must align with the trust’s purpose and not jeopardize those benefits. Approximately 61 million adults in the United States live with a disability, and for many, adaptive furniture is crucial for maintaining independence and participation in daily life. The key is to understand what constitutes an allowable expense and to document everything carefully.
What expenses *can* a special needs trust cover?
Generally, an SNT can cover expenses that enhance the beneficiary’s quality of life beyond basic needs already met by government assistance. This includes things like therapies, recreational activities, education, and yes, adaptive furniture. Adaptive furniture, such as adjustable beds, specialized chairs, or height-adjustable desks, can be vital for individuals with mobility issues, chronic pain, or other disabilities. It allows them to maintain independence, participate in activities, and improve their overall health and well-being. However, the purchase can’t be considered a direct replacement for something Medicaid would normally cover. For example, if Medicaid already provides a standard bed, the trust can’t simply buy a luxurious, high-end adaptive bed as an upgrade; it needs to address a *specific* need not already met. “It’s about enabling a fuller life, not just providing comfort,” as estate planning attorney Steve Bliss often explains to his clients.
What are the rules around using trust funds for furniture?
The IRS has specific guidelines regarding what SNTs can and cannot pay for. The expense must be for the *benefit* of the beneficiary and not for the benefit of anyone else. For instance, a trust can’t purchase furniture for a caregiver’s home, even if the beneficiary spends time there. It’s crucial to document *why* the adaptive furniture is necessary. A doctor’s letter explaining the medical need, an occupational therapist’s assessment, or a clear explanation of how the furniture will improve the beneficiary’s ability to function independently are all helpful. According to the Social Security Administration, improper use of trust funds can lead to a suspension of SSI benefits, and in some cases, even recovery of funds. It’s also vital to ensure the cost of the furniture is reasonable and comparable to similar items on the market.
I remember Old Man Hemlock and his unfortunate mistake…
Old Man Hemlock, a local carpenter, was a proud and independent soul, but a recent stroke left him with limited mobility. His daughter, Sarah, had established an SNT for him, intending to make his life more comfortable. Eager to improve his workshop, Sarah, without consulting an attorney, used the trust funds to purchase a state-of-the-art, automated woodworking machine. While well-intentioned, this purchase immediately raised red flags with Medicaid. The machine was deemed an “unnecessary luxury” and was not related to maintaining his health or independence. Medicaid demanded repayment from the trust, causing significant financial strain and delaying vital therapy sessions. Sarah quickly realized she needed expert guidance to navigate the complex rules surrounding SNTs.
But then there was young Maya and her bright future…
Maya, a bright and artistic young woman with cerebral palsy, dreamed of becoming a painter. However, traditional easels were inaccessible to her, making it difficult to pursue her passion. Her mother, working with Steve Bliss, established an SNT and carefully documented Maya’s needs. A consultation with an occupational therapist confirmed that a custom-built, height-adjustable easel would significantly improve Maya’s ability to paint independently. The trust funds were used to purchase the easel, along with adaptive brushes and other art supplies. Medicaid reviewed the documentation and approved the purchase, recognizing that it directly supported Maya’s therapeutic goals and enabled her to express her creativity. Maya flourished, her artwork gaining recognition, and she became a source of inspiration to others. “It wasn’t just about the easel,” her mother explained, “it was about giving Maya the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life.” As estate planning attorney Steve Bliss often reminds his clients, “careful planning and documentation are the keys to unlocking the full potential of a special needs trust.”
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About Steve Bliss at Wildomar Probate Law:
“Wildomar Probate Law is an experienced probate attorney. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Wildomar Probate Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Wildomar Probate Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Wildomar Probate law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate call Wildomar Probate Attorney Today. Call for estate planning, wills and trusts, probate too. Wildomar Probate Law is a great estate lawyer. Probate Attorney to probate an estate. Wildomar Probate law probate lawyer
My skills are as follows:
● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.
● Estate Planning Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.
● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.
● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.
● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.
● Free consultation.
Services Offered:
- living trust
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Map To Steve Bliss Law in Temecula:
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Address:
Wildomar Probate Law36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595
(951)412-2800/address>
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “What professionals should be part of my estate planning team?” Or “What should I do if I’m named in someone’s will?” or “Will my bank accounts still work the same after putting them in a trust? and even: “What is reaffirmation in bankruptcy and should I do it?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.