Special Needs Trust Funds – What Is Allowed?
Q: My wife has a special needs trust. We’d like to use some of her money to pay for catering for a Holiday party this year. We want to invite about 75 people. Because of her disability, she cannot do the cooking on her own. She needs assistance. We found a caterer who can provide the food, serve, and clean-up for $2,500. Is this an allowable expense to be paid by her trust?
A: I wish I could say yes, but I cannot. The law states that the money in the special needs trust can only be used for the sole benefit of the beneficiary – your wife. May I suggest you continue with your plans for the Holiday party but make it a potluck. This will reduce the time your family spends preparing a meal and everyone will take their dishes home after the party.
Darlene A. Kemp, MPH, MBA-HCM, Executive Director – Vista Points Special Needs Trusts, www.vistapoints.org – 888-422-4076
