Every parent and child needs a strong support system, but for parents of children with special needs, the stakes are higher. Concerns about who will care for your child, both now and in the future, can be overwhelming. Your child may need assistance throughout their life, and it's crucial to plan for their care when you can no longer provide it.
Parents of children with special needs face unique challenges. You need resources for your child's well-being and support for your physical, emotional, and financial needs. Building a "Support Circle" is essential to ensure your child's care is never interrupted and that future caregivers are prepared.
Establishing Your Support Circle and Fiduciary Manual
A well-thought-out Support Circle is critical to holistic special needs planning. This group includes family members, friends, and professionals who can step in and provide care when needed. I can guide you through this process with our Support Circle and Fiduciary Manual, a resource designed to help you choose future caregivers and fiduciaries. These individuals will manage your assets and your child's needs if you become incapacitated or pass away.
Your fiduciaries include your Attorney-in-Fact (under a Power of Attorney), your Revocable Living Trust's Trustee, and your child's Special Needs Trust. While these legal instruments outline responsibilities, your child's needs can change. The Fiduciary Manual helps record these evolving details, offering clear guidance to your fiduciaries on handling daily matters like medical care, finances, and long-term goals for your child.
The Manual should be updated regularly and include vital contacts, such as your child's doctors, healthcare providers, and financial advisors. For some adult children with special needs who are more independent, the Manual can serve as a resource for financial guidance or reminders of emergency protocols. Additionally, it can capture your hopes for your child's future, including education, employment, and values you want them to embrace.
With the Manual, you can plan for everything from managing disability benefits and renewing driver's licenses to maintaining your child's home. This ensures there's a clear roadmap for their care and daily needs.
Putting Your Support Circle Into Action
Your fiduciaries and caregivers may also need support over time. The Support Circle steps in to help ensure that your child's needs are met as they grow. It's a good idea to have the Support Circle, including family, friends, and professionals, meet at least annually. These meetings can review how well-supported your child has been, identify areas of improvement, and discuss plans for the coming year.
Parents often develop blind spots regarding their child's needs. Regular Support Circle meetings can help identify these gaps and address them proactively. Furthermore, it's important not to overlook your needs as a caregiver. Your ability to care for yourself directly impacts your child's well-being, and the Support Circle can provide you with much-needed support.
Another crucial aspect to consider is the well-being of future caregivers. Who will care for them while they support your child? Planning for their health and emotional needs is as important as planning for your child's care.
Completing Your Support Circle With a Special Needs Lawyer
Being the parent of a child with special needs is both rewarding and challenging. A solid support network and a documented plan can ensure that you and your child are well cared for. Whether your child requires supported decision-making or a conservatorship, having a plan in place offers peace of mind.
Working with a special needs lawyer can help you formalize this plan. I can assist you in documenting your wishes, securely storing the Fiduciary Manual, and making sure it's accessible when needed. Every piece of wisdom and experience you've gathered can help shape your child's future and help them thrive.
I aim to ensure your child experiences continuous and consistent support throughout their lifetime. I'd be happy to discuss how we can work together to achieve this for your child and family. Schedule a free call with me to learn more.
Contact Hartmann Law Today
If you have questions about special needs planning, contact our office to speak to an estate planning attorney.
Take steps to start your Life and Legacy planning today! Take action to ensure your voice is heard when you are unable to speak for yourself. Make the decision to protect yourself, your loved ones, your business, your property.
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