Financial Planning Tools and Benefits

As your child grows up, it's natural to start thinking about their future, where they will live, what kind of support they will need, and how they will manage money as an adult. Financial planning can feel overwhelming, but there are tools and programs that can help protect benefits, plan for needs, and set up more independence.

This section introduces key financial tools and supports for families of young people with disabilities. These include:

• STABLE accounts and special needs trusts, which help families save money for their child’s future without risking important benefits.
• Social Security programs (SSI and SSDI), which may provide monthly income for people with disabilities, may provide a monthly income.
• Medicaid, a health insurance program that also offers long-term services and supports.

We will explain what each of these tools does, how they can help, and where to go for more information. You do not have to be a financial expert, just a parent doing your best to plan ahead. This information can help you take the next steps with confidence.