The Law Offices of Adelina Ruiz, P.A., an Orlando-based law firm that helps with estate and disability planning, has released an in-depth educational guide on how Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) help families protect benefits and ensure long-term care for individuals with disabilities.
Titled “Special Needs Trusts in Florida: Protecting Benefits and Securing Long-Term Care,” the article explains the purpose of SNTs, the types available in Florida, and the risks families face when assets are not structured correctly.
“When a loved one relies on Medicaid or SSI, even a small inheritance or financial gift can cause them to lose benefits,” says Attorney Adelina Ruiz. “A Special Needs Trust is one of the most effective tools for preserving benefits while providing meaningful support well into the future.”
Addressing the Legal and Financial Realities Facing Orlando Families
Special Needs Trusts play a critical role in Florida, where the CDC reports that 26% of adults live with a disability, and where tens of thousands depend on Medicaid for home- and community-based care. Programs like SSI and Medicaid enforce strict income and asset limits, making families vulnerable to accidental disqualification.
The article breaks down the three types of Special Needs Trusts recognized under Florida and federal law:
First-Party SNTs, funded with the beneficiary’s own assets
Third-Party SNTs, financed by family members as part of an estate plan
Pooled SNTs, managed by nonprofit organizations
Each option offers unique benefits depending on how the trust is funded and the beneficiary’s long-term care needs.
“Families in Orlando are often unaware that receiving even a modest inheritance can interrupt Medicaid eligibility,” Ruiz adds. “Our guide helps families understand their options so they can choose the right trust and avoid those disruptions.”
Key Estate Planning Tools for Families With Special Needs
The guide highlights why Special Needs Trusts must be integrated into a complete estate planning strategy in Florida, emphasizing the importance of:
Wills updated to direct assets into the SNT
Revocable living trusts aligned with disability planning
Beneficiary designations on life insurance, retirement accounts, and financial accounts
Guardianship planning for minors or adults requiring oversight
Trust funding strategies and successor trustee planning
Families who own small businesses or manage multi-generational assets are also encouraged to incorporate SNT coordination into their broader business planning structure.
Why Ongoing Updates and Family Communication Are Essential
The release stresses that Special Needs Trusts are not “set it and forget it” documents. Families should review their SNTs and estate plans every few years or after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, financial changes, or a new diagnosis.
“Your estate plan should evolve as your life does,” Ruiz explains. “Keeping documents updated—and communicating your decisions clearly—helps prevent confusion, conflict, and benefit disruptions later.”
Choosing an Orlando Firm for Special Needs Planning
The Law Offices of Adelina Ruiz, P.A., serves families throughout Orlando and Central Florida, offering guidance on estate planning, disability planning, probate, and trust administration. The firm emphasizes practical education, clear communication, and long-term support.
“What matters most to our clients is security,” Ruiz says. “Special Needs Trusts provide structure and peace of mind for families facing lifelong care challenges. We are honored to support them through every step of the planning process.”
About the Law Offices of Adelina Ruiz, P.A.
The Law Offices of Adelina Ruiz, P.A. is an Orlando-based estate planning and probate law firm serving families across Central Florida. The firm focuses on estate planning, probate, and estate administration, and business planning. With a client-centered approach, the firm helps families protect assets, preserve benefits, and plan confidently for the future.
Families seeking guidance can book a consultation call today.
