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Special Needs Trusts for Long-Term Planning in Pennsylvania

On Behalf of McMorrow Law, LLC

|

Sep 15, 2026

| Estate Planning

In Pennsylvania, a special needs trust (SNT) lets an individual with a disability hold assets and keep receiving supplemental funds while remaining eligible for government programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These government programs are means-tested, which makes the path forward legally challenging. Our experienced Pennsylvania special needs trust attorneys at McMorrow Law, LLC, have the legal skill and insight to help.

The Unique Challenges Families Face

If you have a child or relative with special needs, you face unique challenges when planning for the future. The primary concern is maintaining their quality of life and safeguarding their financial security without jeopardizing their eligibility for the public benefits they need, which generally include Medicaid and SSI.

The Special Needs Trust

The primary legal tool for achieving this is the special needs trust. With an SNT, you can create a mechanism to provide your loved one with the financial resources they need throughout their lifetime. This is done within a framework that strengthens accountability while helping protect against exploitation and misuse of funds.

The Goal

When you have a properly structured and administered SNT in place, it can give you considerable peace of mind about your child or relative’s future. An SNT ensures they have the resources needed to continue enriching their daily life. SNTs fill this role by providing access to meaningful opportunities, experiences, and support systems that are not available through public benefits alone.

Funds Held in an SNT

Special needs trusts are designed to hold funds that are intended to enhance the beneficiary’s quality of life by covering expenses that government benefits don’t cover. The funds in an SNT supplement rather than replace government benefits, and the kind of expenses that are approved include the following:

  • Specialized equipment that addresses your loved one’s disability, such as home renovations, a computer, or a wheelchair
  • The cost of medical, dental, and therapeutic care that isn’t covered by Medicaid
  • Expenses related to personal care, clothing, and entertainment
  • The cost of education, training, and transportation

Primary Types of SNTs

There are three primary types of SNTs.

Self-Funded SNT

A self-funded SNT, or first-party SNT, is funded with the beneficiary’s own assets, such as from a personal injury settlement. Upon their death, a Medicaid payback provision applies.

Third-Party SNT

Third-party SNTs are funded with assets that are contributed by someone close to the beneficiary, such as a parent, grandparent, family member, or friend. Upon the beneficiary’s death, any remaining assets flow to the named beneficiaries.

Pooled SNT Trust

A pooled SNT trust pools the resources of several beneficiaries, and a nonprofit organization manages it.

It’s Time to Consult with Our Experienced Pennsylvania Special Needs Trust Lawyers

Our well-respected Pennsylvania special needs trust attorneys at McMorrow Law, LLC, are committed to helping you establish an SNT for your loved one that inspires your confidence in their future. Learn how we can help by contacting us online or calling 412-407-2816 today.