Special Needs Trust Purchases
It is impossible to draft an all-inclusive list of what goods and services can and cannot be purchased with a SNT trust. Following are items that are routinely covered.
Goods
Furniture, Personal Care Items , Clothing , Mattress/Box Springs, Vehicles, Television/Stereo, etc., Eyeglasses/Contacts, Toys , Vacations , Hobby Supplies, Gasoline, Essential Dietary Needs, Computers/Software, Pets/Pet Supplies, Games, Washer/Dryer, Guitar/Musical Instrument, etc., Household Products and Supplies, Kitchen Appliances/Tools, School Tuition, Household Appliances, Outdoor Grill, Prepaid Funeral Expenses.
Services
Cell Phone Services, Internet, Cable TV, Hair Care, Transportation, Auto and Renter’s Insurance, Eye and Dental Care, Entertainment Expenses, Tuition to Camps/Classes, etc., Athletic or Recreational Fees, Auto Repair/Maintenance, Attendant Care, Rehabilitation, Pet Grooming/Veterinarian Bills, Tickets to Concerts/Movies Sporting Events, etc, Music Lessons, Maid Services, Home Modifications/Improvements, Field Trips/Day Trips, etc., Therapeutic Massage, Vehicle modifications to make accessible, HVAC Services, Attorney/Accountant/Financial Planning, Seminar/Training/Conference Expenses.
Purchases must be made for the sole benefit of the beneficiary at the sole discretion of the trustee.
What Kinds of Assistance Does an SNT Benefit Provide?
Special needs trusts are designed to supplement government benefits, not replace them. SNT funds can be spent any way the trust provides, as long as they aren’t spent on things the beneficiary is already receiving assistance with. Here are some common examples of ways SNT funds could be used, depending on the terms of the trust:
medical and dental expenses not covered by insurance
rehabilitation and therapy services
educational expenses, such as tutoring or special needs schools
transportation and vehicle expenses
home modifications or accessibility modifications
entertainment and travel expenses
professional care services, such as housekeeping, personal care or companionship