Many people in Washington state have disabilities that hinder their ability to work. Social Security Disability Insurance may be able to provide financial support. However, the eligibility process can seem confusing. Medical conditions The Social Security Administration assesses applicants’ medical conditions to determine eligibility. Conditions must be severe enough to impede substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months or result in death. Diagnoses, treatment records, physician statements and other types of medical evidence play a major role in this evaluation. Residual functional cap ..read more

Guardianship and Conservatorship are important topics for families with adults who have autism. It is a legal process which gives a responsible person the authority to make decisions for an adult who is unable to do so alone. In Washington, guardianship aims to protect and support the well-being and rights of adults with autism, ensuring they live fulfilling lives. Conservatorship provides financial protections and authority. Understanding the process This is a legal process resulting in the appointment an individual to make personal, medical (guardianship) and financial (conservatorship) deci ..read more

Estate planning remains an important yet frequently overlooked conversation within many families. It requires decisions about transferring an individual’s estate after their death, including distributing assets and caring for dependents. Although the topic might feel sensitive and uncomfortable, initiating this discussion with your parents can ensure the honoring of their wishes, reduce potential conflicts among siblings and lessen the stress and confusion associated with managing an estate after a loved one’s passing. This conversation demands tact, respect and understanding, as it addresses ..read more

Even with a disability that prohibits you from working full-time, you may want to earn extra income or remain active in your career. If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance, you may wonder whether you can work part-time while still receiving benefits. If you wish to get a job while collecting SSDI, it is important to understand your options. Permissible limits The Social Security Administration acknowledges that some individuals with disabilities may want to engage in part-time work. Fortunately, SSDI rules allow recipients to work without immediately losing their benefits. The key ..read more

You know at some point you will not be around to provide care for your special needs child, which has probably already led you to consider taking out a life insurance policy that will pay out benefits to cover the care of your child. A first step is to determine how much money your child’s care will require. Forecasting the ongoing and lifetime costs associated with caring for someone with special needs is going to vary depending on the family involved. Still, there are some general guidelines any parent can benefit from. Assess current ongoing needs When evaluating the continual needs of your ..read more

Acting as a trustee involves understanding the legal basis for you to make certain decisions regarding a trust. This can include selling off property contained in the trust. Without established authority to sell off trust assets, you could end up in probate court if the trust beneficiaries decide you lack the power to conduct any sales of trust property. Trust documents as authorization A trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee manages assets for beneficiaries. The terms of the trust, outlined in trust documents created by the trust creator, provide the rules and instructions you as the t ..read more

Social Security Disability benefits provide financial support to individuals unable to work due to a disability. The process of obtaining these benefits can be complex and challenging. Many applicants find themselves facing denials for various reasons. Understanding these reasons can help applicants navigate the system more effectively. 1. Lack of sufficient medical evidence One common reason for SSD claim denials is a lack of sufficient medical evidence. The Social Security Administration requires detailed medical records documenting the nature and severity of the disability. If the medical e ..read more

With estate planning, clearly outlining your wishes can prevent disputes. If there are questions, your loved ones may choose to contest your will, which will put strain on your family. While you cannot always avoid will contests, taking certain actions can greatly reduce concerns regarding your estate plan. Be clear and specific in your language One of the key reasons for contested wills is ambiguity. However, clear and precise language ensures a greater understanding. Clearly identify your beneficiaries and state how to distribute assets. Also, avoid vague terms that may lead to disputes ..read more

Children with emotional difficulties that impact their behavior at school sometimes receive a diagnosis of Emotionally and Behaviorally Disturbed. The U.S. Department of Education reported that in the 2018 to 2019 school year, 5.45% of disabled students had this type of problem. An EBD label can have lasting repercussions on a child’s future. Whether these effects are positive or negative depends upon many factors. Educational challenges and opportunities Children with an EBD label may encounter educational hurdles. Schools often implement special education programs to address their needs, but ..read more

Special needs planning is essential for securing your loved one’s future, but it is never too early to start the process. It is often in your best interest to consider special needs planning as early as possible. The sooner you begin planning, the more options will be available to you. You have greater flexibility The sooner you start special needs planning, the more tools and strategies you can put in place. Beginning the financial and legal preparations while your child is young gives you more flexibility. For example, you may be able to fund a special needs trust or ABLE account that can gr ..read more