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Special Needs Planning Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

If you care for a child or adult with disabilities, you know their needs will last a lifetime. 

We help families across Chicago create special needs plans that provide financial security while protecting eligibility for SSI and Illinois Medicaid benefits.

What Happens to Your Loved One If Something Happens to You?

Many parents and caregivers lie awake thinking about this question.

If your child or dependent receives SSI or Medicaid, leaving money directly to them can unintentionally disqualify them from benefits. Even a modest inheritance can interrupt access to healthcare, housing support, and essential services.

Without proper planning:

  • Government benefits may be suspended
  • Funds can be spent down quickly
  • Court supervision may be required
  • Family disputes may arise over care decisions

A properly structured special needs plan protects both financial support and public benefits.

Call us at (312) 583-9430 or click here to get started.

Key Legal Tools for Special Needs Planning in Illinois

Special needs planning requires careful coordination between estate planning documents and benefit 

Third-Party Special Needs Trust

Funded by parents or family members, this trust allows assets to benefit your loved one without counting against SSI or Medicaid limits. Remaining funds can pass to other family members after your loved one’s lifetime.

First Party Special Needs Trust
  • Funded with the beneficiary’s own assets, such as a personal injury settlement or inheritance. These trusts must comply with specific federal and Illinois rules and may include Medicaid reimbursement provisions.
ABLE Accounts

Illinois ABLE accounts allow qualified individuals to save for disability related expenses without losing benefit eligibility, within annual contribution limits.

Guardianship and Powers of Attorney

For adults with disabilities, legal authority may be required to assist with financial or healthcare decisions. Proper documentation avoids unnecessary court involvement when possible.

Each tool serves a specific purpose. Proper drafting and coordination are critical.

Avoiding Common Mistakes That Cost Families Peace of Mind

We often meet families after a well-intentioned mistake has already been made. A grandparent leaves an inheritance directly to a child receiving SSI. A settlement check is issued without proper trust planning. Benefits are suspended.

Correcting these issues can be stressful and expensive.

Special needs planning is not just about documents. It is about understanding how federal benefit rules interact with Illinois law and your family’s long-term goals.

With the right structure in place, your loved one can receive financial support for housing, education, transportation, and quality of life expenses without losing critical public assistance.

Planning today protects tomorrow.

Call us at (312) 583-9430 or click here to get started.

Secure Their Future with Confidence

At Bielski Chapman, Ltd., our mission is simple. Help families provide lifelong care and financial stability for loved ones with disabilities while preserving public benefits.

Whether you are planning proactively or responding to a recent diagnosis, early legal guidance provides clarity and control.

3 Reasons to Create a Special Needs Plan Now

Protect Government Benefits

Proper trust planning ensures SSI and Medicaid eligibility remains intact.

Provide Lifetime Financial Support

Structured trusts allow funds to enhance quality of life without jeopardizing benefits.

Reduce Family Conflict

Clear instructions and legal authority prevent confusion and disputes among relatives.

They Rely on You. Let’s Protect Their Future.

Caring for a loved one with special needs requires strength, planning, and foresight.

If you want to ensure their financial and personal security for years to come, we are here to guide you.

Schedule your consultation with Bielski Chapman, Ltd. today.