Presque Isle County Special Needs Trust Lawyer

Planning for a loved one with special needs brings a unique mix of love, concern, and long-term responsibility. At Carig Law, we help families throughout the Presque Isle County area create Special Needs Trusts (SNT) that protect both financial security and access to needed benefits. With over 20 years of experience, our lawyer and team understand how important it is to get this right, legally, practically, and compassionately.

Call (989) 623-7592 today to schedule an appointment.

Preserving Benefits While Building Security

One of the biggest concerns families face is how to provide financial support without jeopardizing critical government assistance. Programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid impose strict asset limits, generally no more than $2,000 in countable resources. A properly drafted SNT is designed to solve this problem. 

Assets placed into the trust are not considered owned by the beneficiary for SSI or Medicaid purposes, allowing the funds to be used for the beneficiary's benefit without counting toward the asset limit. 

When structured correctly, an SNT creates a legal buffer between financial support and benefit eligibility, offering you confidence that future planning will not undermine essential care for your loved one. 

Because every family’s situation is different, we provide highly customized guidance shaped by real-world experience and local insight, something larger, less connected firms may struggle to offer. We’re here to ensure the trust structure aligns with Michigan law and to help you think about your loved one’s long-term needs. 

How Trust Funds Can Enhance Quality of Life

Another common question is how trust funds can actually be used day to day. Special Needs Trusts operate under what’s often called the “sole benefit” rule, meaning distributions must be made solely for the benefit of the person with disabilities. Within that framework, the trust can be a powerful tool for improving your loved one’s quality of life.

Funds from a Special Needs Trust may be used for things like:

• Educational programs, tutoring, or vocational training
• Therapy and treatment that is not fully covered by insurance
• Personal care attendants or support services
• Transportation, travel, and adaptive equipment
• Recreation, hobbies, and social activities that promote well-being