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.

Medicare covers older adults and those under 65 with long-term disabilities, though most must wait 24 months after receiving SSDI to qualify. Some conditions, like ALS, bypass this wait. Medicare includes hospital (Part A), outpatient (Part B), drug coverage (Part D), and Medicare Advantage (Part C). Chubb Law Firm can help you navigate Medicare and disability benefits. Call (916) 241-9661 for guidance.

Special needs registries help first responders better assist individuals with disabilities by providing important information such as medical conditions, communication needs, and emergency contacts. These registries improve safety, communication, and peace of mind for families during emergencies.

Cognitive decline is a common part of aging that can leave seniors vulnerable to financial elder abuse. Learn how to recognize early signs, protect your loved ones, and implement strategies to safeguard their financial and emotional well-being.

Learn how seniors can access Medicaid home care benefits, protect assets, and navigate complex eligibility requirements with the help of an elder care attorney, while planning for long-term care and maintaining financial security.