Overview of Special Needs Planning Basics

Learn basic concepts of special needs planning including the following: Differences between first party and third-party special needs trusts, when special needs planning is appropriate, practical drafting tips, potential pitfalls, and how to handle unexpected inheritances. There is also a brief overview of Social Security’s Program Operations Manual System (POMS).

One of the most consequential decisions (and often the last one) in estate planning is trustee selection. The trustee who seems like the most ideal choice at first glance may not necessarily have the diversity of subject matter expertise and oversight to allow for continuous, efficient, and robust administration. Learn about important considerations for trustee selection, the pros and cons of including a professional fiduciary in your estate plan, and how to counsel clients to make informed choices when crafting an estate plan and choosing a trustee.

Learn about drafting considerations after the enactment of the Illinois Trust Code and the SECURE Act and understand the practical implications for SNT trust administration.