A Comprehensive Guide to Special Needs Trusts: Ensuring the Future Security of Your Loved Ones

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Understanding Special Needs Trusts: Why is it Necessary?

Delving into the world of Special Needs Trusts and why they aren’t just applicable for a small population. Discover how it is becoming a widespread solution for securing the future of individuals with disabilities.

The Role of Financial Planners in Special Needs Trusts

Understanding the role of financial planners and how they connect you with the right resources and professionals. Learn how they stay involved in the process and help set up the trust.

The Complexity of Establishing a Special Needs Trust

Highlighting the complexity of establishing Special Needs Trusts and why it’s not a DIY project. Discover why you need professionals to avoid potential missteps that could negatively impact your loved one’s future.

Exploring the Special Needs Trust Document: An Overview

An insight into the extensive document that backs up the Special Needs Trust. Get to know its length and depth, and why it’s necessary to have professionals who specialize in the field.

The Significance of a Special Needs Trust: A Deeper Understanding

Unravel the importance of a Special Needs Trust and how it differs from other trusts. Learn how it can secure the livelihood and benefits of your child or grandchild after you are no longer there to provide for them.

Risks of Inheritance without a Special Needs Trust

Understand the potential risks associated with inheritance without a Special Needs Trust. Discover the complexities of inheriting and the possible pitfalls it might create for individuals with disabilities.

Life Care Plan: A Roadmap for Care

A discussion on the importance of a life care plan in conjunction with a Special Needs Trust. Learn how this plan outlines the care and financial provisions for the rest of your child’s life.

Role of the Trust Money: Enhancing the Quality of Life

Elucidate on the purpose of the trust money and how it is used to enhance the life of the individual with special needs. Uncover the range of services and resources it can cover to make life fulfilling.

Assembling a Team of Professionals

Unveil the importance of having a team of specialized professionals to ensure the proper establishment and management of a Special Needs Trust. Explore different roles, from attorneys and accountants to investment advisors and life insurance professionals.

The Role of the Trustee and Legal Guardian in Special Needs Trusts

Get to know about the roles of trustees and legal guardians in Special Needs Trusts, and how they can secure the financial and personal welfare of the individual with special needs.

Funding a Special Needs Trust with Life Insurance

Understand how life insurance serves as an excellent way to fund a Special Needs Trust, providing financial security for the child’s future irrespective of when the parent passes away.

Planning for the Future: The Steps Involved

A rundown of the crucial steps you need to take now to secure the future of your loved one with special needs. From setting up the trust to choosing the trustee and legal guardian, this section outlines everything you need to consider.

Special Needs Trust (SNT) Person With Disability (PWD)

In this video, we explore the crucial topic of Special Needs Trusts. Often overlooked, these trusts are vital for providing security and care for adult children with disabilities once their parents are unable to provide it. This is not a guide to set up a Special Needs Trust yourself; instead, we want to highlight the importance of professional help in these circumstances and share enough knowledge to get you involved in the process. Our discussion covers the role of attorneys, accountants, and life insurance in setting up these trusts, along with potential pitfalls. Whether you are a parent or know someone in this situation, this video is an essential watch.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Special Needs Trusts: Ensuring the Future Security of Your Loved Ones

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Understanding the Upcoming 2026 Income Tax Increase: What You Need to Know

A Brief History of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)

In today’s Cardinal lesson, we’re discussing the significant changes coming to income tax rates in 2026. This isn’t a proposal but a law already set in motion. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), passed in 2017 and effective from January 1, 2018, brought about substantial reductions in income taxes. However, these reductions were only funded for eight years, meaning they will expire at the end of 2025.

What Changes to Expect in 2026

As of January 1, 2026, the tax rates will revert to their 2017 levels, adjusted for inflation. Key changes include:

  • The 12% bracket will increase to 15%.
  • The 22% bracket will rise to 25%.
  • The top rate of 37% will revert to 39.6%.

Not Just a Proposal

It’s crucial to understand that this change is already the law. Many people mistakenly believe that the tax rate increases are still under discussion. However, unless Congress enacts new legislation, these higher rates will take effect as scheduled.

Implications for Your Financial Planning

Impact on IRAs and 401(k)s

With the current lower tax rates, now is the time to consider strategies like Roth conversions. By converting funds from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA now, you can potentially save a significant amount in taxes over the long term.

Why Planning Ahead is Crucial

For individuals with substantial retirement savings, understanding these changes is vital for effective tax planning. The window to take advantage of the current lower tax rates is closing, and planning ahead can make a significant difference.

Case Studies and Planning Opportunities

Hans Scheil and Tom Griffith discuss specific case studies and planning strategies in our latest video. These examples illustrate how different scenarios can be managed effectively:

  • Case Study 1: A married couple with an adjusted gross income of $150,000 in 2024 can convert part of their IRA to a Roth IRA, taking advantage of the lower current tax rates.
  • Case Study 2: High-net-worth individuals with large IRAs can save substantial amounts in taxes by planning conversions over the next two years.

Estate Tax Considerations

The TCJA also doubled the estate tax exemption, which will revert in 2026. This change can significantly impact high-net-worth individuals, making estate planning more crucial than ever.

Action Steps to Take Now

  • Review Your Current Tax Situation: Analyze how the upcoming changes will affect your finances.
  • Consider Roth Conversions: Take advantage of the lower tax rates before they expire.
  • Plan for Estate Taxes: Assess your estate plans in light of the changing exemptions.

Conclusion

The changes coming in 2026 are significant, but with proper planning and informed decision-making, you can navigate these changes effectively. Watch our video for more detailed insights and personalized advice.

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Contact us today with any questions, concerns, or just to stay connected.

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