Providing for a Disabled Claimant’s Future

The cost of a client losing government benefits can be very high, often in the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. From a risk management standpoint, it is wise to ensure that all possible options for settlement distribution as well as the implications of a plaintiff accepting a cash settlement are examined up […]

Settlement Options for Minors: Case Examples

When handling a minor’s case, contact Traci Kaas early in the process to explore the settlement options. Courts favor a conservative approach that protects the funds until the minor reaches the age of majority. Because a minor cannot own an investment, traditional financial vehicles such as 529 plans and mutual fund accounts are off the […]

Is a First Party Special Needs Trust Right for Your Client?

Disabled individuals who expect to receive settlement proceeds may need to consider placing the proceeds into a trust account to preserve assets, protect government benefit eligibility, and help ensure that their needs are being met. A First-Party Special Needs Trust (sometimes referred to as a “d4A trust,” as a nod to the section of federal […]

Which Government Benefits are Affected by a Settlement—and Which Ones Aren’t?

  Last week, the Senate unveiled its new version of the American Healthcare Act (AHCA). The proposed bill includes historically steep cuts to the Medicaid program. But did you know that there are already other circumstances under which an individual may lose Medicaid (Medi-Cal) eligibility—including the acceptance of a lump sum settlement? Whether the AHCA […]

What Goods and Services Are Eligible for Special Needs Trust Distributions?

Disabled individuals who receive needs-based government benefits run the risk of losing eligibility if they accept a lump sum settlement. Fortunately, a special needs trust (SNT) may help the disabled individual maintain benefit eligibility while protecting their assets. The trustee of the special needs trust (e.g. a parent/guardian or a corporate trustee) is in charge […]

Settlement Planning: A Case Study

Whether your client is a minor child, a working age adult, or an elderly claimant, a settlement planner can be a valuable addition to your team. Unlike a broker or a financial advisor who focuses solely on the finances, a settlement planner takes a more comprehensive approach to settlements, considering additional factors such as living […]