Should you use a Special Needs Trust, an ABLE account, or both?
Five short questions. The recommendation depends on how much money is involved, where it comes from, whether the beneficiary can manage funds independently, and how quickly access is needed.
1
How much money do you need to shelter or plan for?
Include current assets plus expected future contributions (inheritance, settlement, family gifts). If this is a working adult with monthly saving goals, use the annual amount.
2
Where is the money coming from?
This affects tax and eligibility rules. Third-party funds (family gifts, inheritance) have different rules than the beneficiary's own money.
3
Can the beneficiary manage money independently?
This affects whether a trustee is needed. ABLE accounts allow the beneficiary or an authorized representative to spend directly. Trusts require a trustee to approve every distribution.
4
Disability onset age
ABLE requires disability onset before age 46 (as of 2026). SNTs do not have an onset-age requirement.
5
How quickly is access needed?
ABLE distributions are same-day. SNT distributions require trustee approval and can take days or weeks. This affects usability for daily expenses.