Special Needs Planning

Fact: According to “The National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs,” conducted in 2005-2006, 13.9% of U.S. children under the age of 18 (about 10.2 million children) have special health care needs. ¹ This study found nearly 22% of households with children include at least one child with a special health care need. ²

If something were to happen to you today, who would be there to protect the needs of your loved ones — especially those with special needs? In the past 25 years, the definition of “special needs” has broadened, making financial and estate planning vital for the parents or guardians of these children. Think of all your current and possible future special needs-related expenses, such as special residential homes, employment assistance and other costs.

While it may be tough to meet these obligations now, imagine the implications after you’re gone. Start planning now to help safeguard the future of your loved ones. We're here to help.

Educating yourself about your options is key, and may help you make more informed decisions in the planning process.

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration. See www.mchb.hrsa.gov/cshcn05 (last reviewed 2/25/2011).
2. See note 1, supra.

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