Attorney/Financial Advisor/Resources: Planning for Disabled Child

[Anonymous]

Our DD became quite ill a year ago and life took a 180 degree turn for our entire family. We were blindsided and have been hoping there would be some recovery, and while there are some, the improvement is marginal. We have fully loaded her 529 for a 4-year private college education, which we assume likely will not be used and if it were used, it will likely involve some coursework at our local community college. We have yet to plan much of anything, mostly because we were just in a hell hole with getting our DD out to safety. I am not sure what the future will hold for her. We try to remain hopeful but need to face reality to properly support her. She starts high school this August and will have a 504 in place initially. We are located in Montgomery County, and thinking about a blended option for school where she goes to school part day, and taking a couple of classes virtually.

There is a component of mental health involved as well which is probably the most difficult for us to navigate.

Wondering if we can get some advice in terms of who to contact to set things up for future support. Any resources would be greatly appreciated. She turns 15 yo soon.

Thank you.

[Anonymous]

1. Search this forum for names.
2. Look at the sticky at the top of the forum.

Also:
Elville and Associates
Michael Dalto
Maedi Tanham Carney

[Anonymous]

So sorry you are going through this. This must be overwhelming for your family.

Do you think your daughter will be able to live independently? If not, then you should consider creating a trust. You may be able to change the 529 to a 529 ABLE account, which gives you more flexibility as to how the money is used.

Our situation is different (DS was born with an intellectual disability), but when we were starting this process we talked to Jerry Hulick. He does financial planning for families who have children with special needs. He gave us an overview of the process and recommended several lawyers who specialize in special needs trusts. I’d reach out to him and explain your situation, and he can probably give you next steps or refer you to someone else who can help you. https://greaterwashington.massmutual.com/about-us/our-financial-representatives/jerry-l-hulick