Planning For Two Lifetimes: Financial Strategies for Families with Special Needs

What happens when you're no longer here to care for your child? For many families of children with special needs, that question can feel overwhelming. In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, host Jake Edgar sits down with Michael Ringel, CPA, Chartered Special Needs Consultant, and Founder of Special Needs Wealth Planning, to discuss the financial strategies every family should understand when planning for the future. Michael shares his unique "Planning for Two Lifetimes" approach and explains how families can protect government benefits, utilize Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts, avoid costly financial mistakes, and create long-term security for their loved ones. He also discusses retirement planning, funding future care, choosing trustees, and practical steps families can take today to gain peace of mind about tomorrow. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or professional supporting individuals with disabilities, this episode provides valuable guidance on one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of special needs planning.