Caring for your child is one of life’s greatest gifts. However, it’s not always easy – especially if you are raising a child with special needs. Although not openly spoken about, parents are often concerned:

“Who will take care of my child when I’m gone?”
“How do I protect them financially then?”
Let’s address these issues today.

Why a Will Matters Even More for Special Needs Families

Guardianship

This is arguably the most important component in a Will to protect your child. The role of a guardian goes beyond basic caregiving. Their job also involves emotional support, medical and educational decisions, and therapy routines.
A Will allows you to name your preferred primary guardian, backup guardians and instructions to guide them. Without one, a decision may ultimately be made by the court, which may not reflect what you wish for your child.

Long-Term Financial Security for Your Child

Typically, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of caretaking after death.
Most parents wish to leave money behind for their child, not realising that a lump sum inheritance may disrupt eligibility for certain financial support schemes. Through a Will, you will be able to structure the disbursement of payouts properly using trusts.
Initiatives like the Special Needs Trust Company (SNTC) Trust and Special Needs Savings Scheme (SNSS) help you achieve this by acting as a reliable avenue to manage the disbursement of your cash assets and CPF monies when you pass. This would ensure your child receives sustainable financial support, even after you’re no longer around.

Long-Term Care for Your Child 

A child with special needs may require lifetime support in terms of care and financial planning. To manage this, your Will should include important details such as:

• How your child should be supported
• Long-term living arrangements 
• Therapy and medical plans
• Who is responsible for making decisions when needed 
• How assets will be distributed
• Appointed trustees to manage assets on behalf of your child (based on your instructions)

What Happens Without a Will?

• Guardianship decisions may be made by the courts and may not align with what you want 
• Assets will be distributed according to the intestacy laws (default distribution according to the law), not your child’s needs
• Access to funds may be delayed, affecting immediate care
• Assets may then be released in a lump sum 
• No trustee will be appointed by default to oversee where the money goes

These could cause unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.

Every parent wishes to protect and provide their children with a safe and stable future. For children with special needs, thoughtful legal and financial planning becomes even more critical.  

If you are unsure where to start, we can guide you through your options before making informed decisions and creating a care plan that protects your child for life.