Planning Ahead for a Loved One with Special Needs

August 14, 2025

If you care for someone with special needs, one of the biggest questions that may keep you up at night is: “What happens when I’m no longer around to protect them?” In this episode, Rob offers critical guidance on how to ensure your most vulnerable loved ones are cared for, without jeopardizing their financial security or access to government benefits. He covers trust types, how to choose a trustee and breaks down how to plan with wisdom, flexibility, and love.

Rob explains why overfunding a trust can be just as problematic as underfunding one, how to avoid locking away too much money, and why trustee decisions should be reviewed regularly. You’ll also hear about the importance of working closely with an estate planning attorney to ensure your structure fits your family’s needs. You’ve worked hard to build wealth that protects your family, don’t leave anything up to chance. This episode provides tips and insights to help you make sure that protection lasts, even after you're gone.

Here’s what we discuss in this episode:

🔐 What a special needs trust actually does

👨‍👩‍👧 First-party vs. third-party trusts

⚖️ Why “too much” funding can backfire

💰 Real example: too much money locked away

📆 When to reevaluate your trustee or successor

0:00 – Intro

1:25 – What is a special needs trust?

2:25 – First-party vs. third-party trusts

4:21 – How to fund it wisely?

5:39 – Key strategies

6:59 – Tips for choosing the right trustee