Modern Estate Planning Blog

Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) and ABLE accounts both allow individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for vital public benefits like SSI and Medi-Cal. At Chubb Law Firm, PC, we’ll help you determine which option—or combination—is best for your family’s unique situation.

Planning for a loved one with special needs is one of the most important things you can do to protect their future. These 10 tips will help you plan wisely—without jeopardizing vital benefits or your broader estate plan.

Mental illness impacts millions of families in the U.S., making proper estate planning essential for protecting children with mental health challenges. At Chubb Law Firm, PC, we help parents create customized plans—including special needs trusts and psychiatric advance directives—to ensure long-term care, financial security, and access to vital benefits.

Major cuts to education funding are causing a ripple of concern across special education programs. What’s at stake for students with disabilities?

Individuals with disabilities face unique financial challenges, but there are several tax credits, deductions, and savings tools available to help. From ABLE accounts to specialized tax breaks, these strategies can reduce tax burdens and improve financial security without jeopardizing government benefits. By understanding these options, individuals can maximize savings, reduce tax liability, and plan for a secure financial future.

Pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS) help students with disabilities transition from school to the workforce, offering vital job exploration, training, and counseling. Unfortunately, many eligible students miss out on these services due to lack of awareness and inconsistent implementation across states. Ensuring access to Pre-ETS can significantly improve employment opportunities and independence for disabled students.

The Autism CARES Act of 2024 provides nearly $2 billion in federal funding for autism research, education, and support over the next five years. This law aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism by enhancing early intervention, adult services, and professional training, promoting independence, and fostering a more inclusive society.

Medicaid provides a critical safety net for seniors needing long-term care, but qualifying can be complex, especially for married couples. In 2025, the Community Spouse Resource Allowance allows the healthy spouse to retain up to $157,920 in assets, while the Monthly Maintenance Needs Allowance ensures they can keep a minimum income. Consulting an elder law attorney can help navigate these rules and protect your financial future.

A new report shows Americans overwhelmingly support strengthening Social Security, even with higher taxes, to address its long-term financing gap. Proposed reforms include raising taxes on high earners and improving benefits for seniors. At Chubb Law Firm, PC, we can help you plan for a secure retirement with Social Security in mind.

As the population of adults over 65 grows, so does dementia, primarily caused by Alzheimer’s, affecting nearly 7 million Americans. Dementia impacts individuals and their families, with costs reaching $360 billion in 2024. While no cure exists, innovations like memory-focused programs, AI tools, and technology for aging seniors offer hope. Chubb Law Firm, PC can help with long-term care planning and asset protection. Contact us at (916) 241-9661 for assistance.