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How does a special needs trust work - Portland, Oregon.

September 17, 2010

Like all trusts, there is a trustee—(the person who manages the trust)—and a beneficiary—(the person with disabilities who benefits from the money in the trust fund.)

The trustee’s job is to manage the funds and to distribute them for the benefit of the beneficiary.

The purpose of a special needs trust is to improve the beneficiaries’ quality of life. Trust funds can be used for things such as transportation, phone & cable service, uninsured medical expenses, classes, vacations, etc. Unfortunately, Special Needs Trust Funds cannot be used for (subject to some exceptions) housing or food.

The trustee and the beneficiary cannot be the same person. The beneficiary cannot manage the trust.

Can a special needs trust help a member of your family? Meeting with a Special Needs Planning attorney can help you to better understand your situation  - Contact the Special Needs Planning attorneys with the Law Offices of Nay & Friedenberg in Portland, Oregon at (503) 245-0894 to set an appointment.