Special needs planning is crucial for families who have a family member with a disability. Without adequate planning, individuals with special needs risk losing access to vital government benefits such as healthcare, housing, and personal care services.
To avoid this, it is essential to seek the assistance of an Amarillo special needs planning lawyer who can guide you through the intricacies of special needs planning. They will help you develop a comprehensive plan that guarantees your loved one receives the necessary care while preserving their eligibility for these essential benefits. Having a thorough special needs plan, you can rest assured that your loved one’s future is secure.
Special Needs Fast Facts in Amarillo
According to the Texas Workforce Investment Council’s 2019 update, approximately 3.34 million individuals in Texas are living with disabilities. Roughly one in five Texans with disabilities are under 35, and more than 8% are minor children.
These statistics highlight the importance of special needs planning for families in Texas, as it ensures that individuals with disabilities have access to the necessary support and services to live fulfilling lives. A qualified lawyer can help families navigate the unique challenges of planning for a loved one with special needs and ensure their secure future.
Special Needs Resources in Amarillo, TX
As a family member of an individual with a disability, finding the right resources and support can be overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for educational resources, support services, or legal advocacy, local resources are available to help you navigate the complex world of special needs.
BrightStar Home Care
BrightStar Home Care of Amarillo specializes in providing personalized care and assistance for individuals with disabilities and special needs. Our trained care professionals offer support for conditions like Spina Bifida, ALS, Cerebral Palsy, and spinal cord injuries, empowering clients to live independently.
BrightStar Home Care
1901 Medi-Park Drive
Suite 1060
Amarillo, TX, 79106
(806) 745–9996
Turn Center
The Turn Center is a unique organization in the Texas Panhandle that offers therapy services to children with special needs, ranging from birth to age 20. They provide a wide range of therapies, such as occupational, physical, speech, and feeding therapy, as well as mental health counseling for families.
Turn Center
1250 Wallace Boulevard
Amarillo, Texas 79106
(806) 353–3596
Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services
The Department of Aging and Disability Services provides information and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families, including access to Medicaid and other government benefits.
Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services
1111 Collins Rd.
Richmond, TX 77469
(832) 681-2635
How a Trusted Amarillo Special Needs Planning Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the legal and financial aspects of special needs planning can be overwhelming, but with the help of a trusted Amarillo special needs planning lawyer, families can have peace of mind knowing that their loved one’s future is secure.
An experienced attorney can provide valuable guidance and legal counsel in creating a comprehensive plan that meets the unique needs of individuals with special needs and their families.
A special needs planning attorney can:
- Assess your loved one’s needs. A Amarillo special needs planning lawyer can help you assess the specific needs of your loved one with special needs, including medical care, housing, and education.
- Create a special needs trust. What is a special needs trust? It’s a legal document that allows assets to be held for the benefit of an individual with special needs. This trust is designed to provide additional financial support for individuals with special needs without compromising their eligibility for government benefits.
- Choose a trustee. The trustee is responsible for managing the special needs trust and ensuring that the funds are used appropriately. It is important to choose a trustee with experience in special needs planning who understands the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.
- Set up an ABLE account. Also known as an “Achieving a Better Life Experience” account, an ABLE account is a specialized, tax-advantaged savings account for individuals with disabilities. These accounts were created to help individuals with disabilities and their families save money for disability-related expenses without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- Review and update your plan regularly. Special needs planning is an ongoing process that requires regular review and updates. It is important to review your plan regularly to ensure that it continues to meet your loved one’s needs.
Contact Amarillo Special Needs Planning Lawyers
If you have a family member with special needs, it is vital to establish a comprehensive special needs plan to ensure their future stability. In Amarillo, Texas, our team of knowledgeable special needs planning lawyers at Shields Law is committed to assisting families. We offer valuable guidance in creating a personalized plan that addresses your loved one’s unique requirements, including special needs trusts and government benefits planning. Take the first step toward securing your loved one’s future—contact us today for a free discovery call.
