Developing a Life Plan
Estate Planning, in general, encompasses both financial and legal aspects for all families, and is an important step in preparing for the future of loved ones. But for families with dependents with special needs, in addition to typical planning, there may be unique steps that are necessary to include in order to secure the financial future of their loved one with special needs. It is critical that these families work closely with professionals with experience in working with special needs families.
Our holistic approach begins with a foundation of the key areas of future planning including financial position, protection, investments, tax management, retirement planning and estate planning. Then, expands to address the additional planning dynamics that families with special needs face, including:
Life Care Planning1
Government Program Integration
Family Dynamics
Legal and Tax Issues
Financial Resource Management
Our process encourages communication among the family’s network of advisors, provides information, education, resources, and offers customized options that create financial and legal strategies unique to an individual’s situation.
Our team focuses on three key areas; Emotional, Financial, and Legal.
EMOTIONAL
Address current and future primary concerns
Create your vision for your life care plan
Access to local organizations and advocacy groups
Prepare a Letter of Intent
How to involve family/friends in the planning process
FINANCIAL
Uncover potential financial pitfalls
Identify financial resources
How life insurance can benefit an individual with special needs and their family
Information on government benefits
Determine current & future plan/care costs
LEGAL
Uncover potential legal pitfalls
Identify guardianship needs or alternatives to guardianship
Identify trustees
Guidance in preparing legal instruments, i.e. wills, trusts, and other legal documents
Determine appropriateness of a properly drafted special needs trust and/or ABLE account
Having a proper plan in place can help relieve the stresses of the unexpected tomorrows.
Together we can help make a difference for future outcomes!
The information provided is not written or intended as specific tax or legal advice. MassMutual, its subsidiaries, employees and representatives are not authorized to give tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to seek advice from their own tax or legal counsel. Individuals involved in the estate planning process should work with an estate planning team, including their own personal legal or tax counsel.
1 A Life Care Plan is a coordinated program of future care planning, financial, and legal strategies for people with special needs and their families
Insurance products issued by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), C.M. Life Insurance Company, and MML Bay State Life. C.M. Life Insurance Co. and MML Bay State Life Insurance Co., Enfield, CT 06082, are non-admitted in New York and are subsidiaries of MassMutual, Springfield, MA 01111-0001.
CRN202301-258624