Special needs planning: the money checklist.

Open an ABLE account

A tax-advantaged account owned by the person with the disability, and the first $100,000 doesn't count against the SSI asset limit. Eligibility currently requires disability onset before age 46.

Set up a special-needs trust for larger sums

Assets held in a properly drafted trust don't count against benefit limits and can fund quality-of-life expenses. First-party and third-party trusts follow different rules. The distinction matters.

Redirect every relative's estate plan

Grandparents' wills and life insurance should name the trust, not the person. One unredirected bequest can undo years of careful planning.

Write the letter of intent

Routines, medications, providers, preferences, what a good day looks like. It isn't legally binding, but it's the single most useful document a future caregiver will hold.

Explore alternatives to full guardianship

Supported decision-making agreements and powers of attorney signed at 18 preserve more independence than court guardianship, and they're easier to adjust as needs change.

Reapply for benefits at the age-18 review

At 18, SSI counts only the adult child's own income and assets, not the parents'. Many who didn't qualify as minors qualify then. Mark the birthday and apply.

Name and brief the successor caregivers

Trustees, guardians, and backups, chosen and told where the documents live. A plan nobody can find or administer protects no one.