Planning for long-term care and protecting loved ones with disabilities or chronic conditions can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s helpful to understand the public benefit programs available—and the legal tools that work hand-in-hand with them. Below is a helpful overview of the most common programs and planning options families use. Our team is here to guide you through every step.
Medicaid
Healthcare assistance for individuals with limited income and assets.
Who it helps:
Seniors, people with disabilities, and families with low income who may need long-term care.
Key points:
- In most states, an individual must have less than $2,000 in assets to qualify.
- Medicaid often covers nursing home care, which can cost over $10,000/month.
- Planning at least five years ahead is recommended to protect assets.
- After death, Medicaid may seek repayment from your estate.
- We can help you navigate both proactive and emergency Medicaid planning.
Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT)
A specialized trust to help you qualify for Medicaid while protecting your assets.
Best for:
Families planning ahead to safeguard their savings or those in immediate need of Medicaid coverage.
Key points:
- Assets placed in the trust are protected after five years.
- Can help avoid estate recovery and preserve your legacy.
- Should be set up with legal guidance due to strict rules and penalties.
Medicare
Health insurance for older adults and those with certain disabilities.
Who it helps:
People age 65+, or under 65 with qualifying conditions or disabilities.
What it covers:
- Part A: Hospital and skilled nursing care
- Part B: Doctor visits, outpatient care
- Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans
- Part D: Prescription drugs
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Monthly financial help for seniors or people with disabilities who have limited income.
Who it helps:
People over 65 or with a qualifying disability.
Key points:
- Often paired with Medicaid benefits.
- 2025 benefit: Up to $967/month for individuals.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Income support for individuals with disabilities who have a work history.
Who it helps:
People who have paid into Social Security and now meet disability criteria.
Key points:
- Not income-based.
- Medicare coverage starts after two years on SSDI.
Special Needs Trusts (SNTs)
Helps individuals with disabilities keep public benefits while receiving supplemental support.
Two types:
- First-party SNT: Uses the beneficiary’s own funds; must include Medicaid repayment after death.
- Third-party SNT: Funded by others; no Medicaid repayment required.
Why use one:
To preserve public benefits while improving quality of life.
SECURE Special Needs Trust (SSNT)
A type of third-party trust designed to hold retirement funds for a disabled loved one.
Who it helps:
Families who want to leave retirement assets to a disabled child or relative without affecting their benefits.
ABLE Accounts
Tax-free savings for people with disabilities that won’t impact benefits.
Who it helps:
People who developed a disability before age 26 (expanding to age 46 in 2026).
Key points:
- Save up to $19,000/year.
- First $100,000 is not counted against SSI eligibility.
Veterans Pension with Aid and Attendance
Tax-free monthly benefit to help wartime Veterans and surviving spouses pay for care.
Who it helps:
Wartime Veterans or their surviving spouses who meet service and financial criteria.
2025 benefit amounts:
- $2,795/month (married Veteran)
- $2,358/month (single Veteran)
- $1,515/month (surviving spouse)
Veterans Asset Protection Trust (VAPT)
A tool to protect assets and qualify for VA benefits.
Best for:
Wartime Veterans planning ahead, especially those who own a home.
Other Helpful VA Programs
- Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC): Extra monthly support for combat-injured military retirees.
- Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay (CRDP): Extra pay for retired Veterans with a 50%+ service-connected disability rating.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Helps with grocery costs for households with limited income, including seniors and people with disabilities.
Final Thoughts
The best strategy starts with a clear understanding of what’s available and how it aligns with your family’s goals. Whether you’re planning ahead or facing an urgent situation, we’re here to help you make the best decisions for your future and your loved ones.
