This article is an updated version of one originally published in August 2014 by SNA member Ed Wilcenski of Wilcenski & Pleat, PLLC in Clifton Park, NY, and now-retired SNA member Barbara Hughes. Studies indicate that divorce rates increase with the onset of a disability. While any divorce is likely to be disruptive, when one [...]
This issue of The Voice® is prepared by SNA Public Policy Advisor Brian Lindberg in conjunction with members of the SNA Public Policy Committee.
Every parent experiences some anxiety as they prepare to send their child to college, but for parents of children with disabilities, those anxious feelings can grow exponentially. We are sharing some helpful tips to help allay your nerves and ease the transition process for both you and your child.
No Medicaid repayment is necessary upon the beneficiary’s death for third-party supplemental needs trusts. But what happens if the third-party trust purchases a home for the beneficiary, is it subject to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) one-third reduction rule? The following answers that question.
When a family member approaches age 65, there are often significant changes to benefits and supports. In addition, there are opportunities that can offer future benefits to your loved one that need to be addressed, some before your loved one turns 65. What services may be changing? What do family members need to know? To help prepare for this transition, we have highlighted some of the top considerations.
The caregiver shortage is a growing problem for people with disabilities, older adults, and those that support them. Quality of life and care are often significantly compromised for all care partners. This article strives to answer the questions - how did we get to this point? And what can you do if you need caregiving help?
This issue of The Voice® was written by SNA member Catherine Wilson of McPherson, Rocamora, Nicholson, Wilson & Hinkle, PLLC, which is located in Durham, North Carolina and serves the areas of Durham, Raleigh, Chapel Hill and beyond. Catherine focuses on estate planning, special needs planning, guardianships, taxation law, and trust and estate litigation.
This blog post highlights the devastating impact post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has on many veterans, and the resources available from the government and other organizations to help reduce the pain and suffering brought on by PTSD.
The Voice® is prepared and distributed by the Special Needs Alliance (SNA). This installment was written by a consortium of members of the SNA’s Public Policy Committee. The Public Policy Committee through our public policy consultant, Brian Lindberg, work with members of Congress and congressional staff to educate and advocate on issues of importance to individuals with disabilities and their families. The Public Policy Committee will author periodic issues of the The Voice® to introduce our readers to the Public Policy efforts the SNA is directly involved in.
The Veterans Administration offers several benefit programs for the families of former members of the uniformed service. These lesser known benefits could help your veterans’ children with disabilities. When Michael Kirtland, CELA, speaks with new clients in his practice, he always includes two key questions: Are you a military veteran? And if so, were you [...]
The Voice is the e-mail newsletter of The Special Needs Alliance. This installment was written by Bryn Poland, Esq. and Pi-Yi G. Mayo, CELA, of the Law Office of Pi-Yi Mayo, in Baytown, Texas (mayopoland.com). Their practice focuses on elder law and special needs planning, including special needs trusts, Medicare set-asides, and Qualified Settlement Funds. Both are members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and the Texas chapter (TX NAELA). Pi-Yi is a Certified Elder Law Attorney, Special Needs Alliance Executive Committee member, and currently serves on the Board of the TX NAELA chapter. Bryn graduated from Washburn University School of Law in 2007 and currently serves as Co-Chair of the Elder Law Committee of the Houston Bar Association. Together they have authored many papers covering topics from long term care insurance to Pickle people (https://mayopoland.com/resources/).
The Voice is the e-mail newsletter of The Special Needs Alliance. This installment was written by Janet Lowder, CELA; Sandra J. Buzney, JD, LISW and Mary B. McKee, JD, who practice law in northeast Ohio with Hickman & Lowder Co., L.P.A. Janet and Sandra are members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA); Mary belongs to the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR). Janet is also the Vice President of the Special Needs Alliance, a national organization committed to helping individuals with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who represent them.