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529 Plans, ABLE Accounts, & Special Needs Trusts

Financial planning for families with special needs.

Ensuring financial stability for a loved one with special needs requires careful planning to safeguard their future, while maintaining access to government benefits. Special needs families have several financial tools to consider, including 529 Plans, ABLE Accounts, and Special Needs Trusts—each providing unique advantages in terms of tax savings, benefit eligibility, and financial flexibility. Understanding these options can help families make informed decisions to support their loved one’s future.

Understanding Your Options

  • 529 Plans are tax-advantaged savings accounts that allow tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses, including tuition, books, and certain student loan repayments. Ownership affects how they are treated for financial aid and government benefits. Since these accounts are typically owned by a parent or another party, funds are not directly accessible to the beneficiary and do not affect government benefits.
  • ABLE Accounts offer tax-free growth and withdrawals for disability-related expenses such as healthcare, housing, and transportation. In 2025, up to $100K is exempt from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) limits; exceeding this may impact benefits. Medicaid payback rules apply if any funds remain upon the beneficiary’s passing.
  • Special Needs Trusts provide the most flexibility, allowing funds to cover a wide range of expenses while preserving eligibility for government programs. These trusts require trustee oversight, and first-party trusts may be subject to Medicaid reimbursement upon the beneficiary’s death.

 

Integrating These Tools into Your Financial Plan

Choosing the right savings and support options depends on a family’s specific needs, financial goals, and the beneficiary’s potential eligibility for assistance. To ensure financial security while preserving access to essential resources, many families strategically combine these tools. For instance, a 529 Plan helps cover education expenses, an ABLE Account supports daily living costs, and a Special Needs Trust offers long-term financial protection. By leveraging these options together, families can create a comprehensive plan tailored to their loved one’s needs. Since each option comes with complex eligibility rules, tax implications, and legal considerations, working with a Chartered Special Needs Consultant can help ensure that families select the best strategy tailored to their unique situation. A well-structured financial plan helps safeguard a loved one’s future while balancing immediate needs and long-term goals.

If you’re navigating financial planning for a family member with special needs, consider speaking with a Chartered Special Needs Consultant to understand how these tools can work together for your family’s future.

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This article is limited to the dissemination of general information about Modera’s investment advisory and financial planning services that is not suitable for everyone. Nothing herein should be interpreted or construed as investment advice nor as legal, tax or accounting advice nor as personalized financial planning, tax planning or wealth management advice. For legal, tax and accounting-related matters, we recommend you seek the advice of a qualified attorney or accountant. This article is not a substitute for personalized investment or financial planning from Modera. There is no guarantee that the views and opinions expressed herein will come to pass, and the information herein should not be considered a solicitation to engage in a particular investment or financial planning strategy. The statements and opinions expressed in this article are subject to change without notice based on changes in the law and other conditions.

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