Healthcare Proxy Essentials: Everything You Need to Know

A financial gift for a loved one with special needs should mean security — not the loss of Medicaid, SSI, and critical long-term support. Yet in Texas, even a modest settlement or inheritance can instantly violate the strict $2,000 asset limit and trigger the loss of life-sustaining benefits. In this episode, we break down how Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) work, why they matter, and how Texas families can use them to protect both financial resources and government aid.Guided by the expertise of Duncan Strickland at Strickland Law Firm, we explain the rules, deadlines, and structures families must understand to avoid devastating eligibility consequences. You’ll learn:✔ The $2,000 SSI/Medicaid asset rule — and why it matters✔ What SNTs can pay for (and what they can’t)✔ Why “supplement, don’t substitute” is the #1 spending rule✔ The difference between 1st-party, 3rd-party, and pooled trusts✔ The mandatory Medicaid payback requirement (and how to avoid it)✔ The age 65 deadline for funding first-party SNTs✔ Why DIY trust documents almost always backfire✔ How proper drafting + funding preserves benefits for life If you’re a parent, caregiver, or family member planning for a loved one with disabilities, this episode gives you the legal clarity you need — without the legal jargon. Don’t risk losing essential care due to avoidable mistakes.More Info:Legal Disclaimer:This podcast and related content are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is created by listening to this podcast, reading associated materials, or contacting us through this platform. Laws vary by state and are subject to change. You should consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction for advice regarding your specific legal matter.This episode includes AI-generated content.