Arkansas Trust Agreement — Family Special Needs is a legal document that ensures the financial security and well-being of individuals with special needs in the state of Arkansas. It is designed to protect the assets and benefits of individuals with disabilities while ensuring their eligibility for government assistance programs. A Family Special Needs Trust Agreement is an essential tool for families looking to provide ongoing support for their loved ones with disabilities. It can be created for various purposes, including receiving an inheritance, personal injury settlement, or other forms of financial support. Specific types of Arkansas Trust Agreements for Family Special Needs include: 1. Third-Party Special Needs Trust: This type of trust is established by a family member or guardian for the benefit of an individual with special needs. It allows family members to leave assets to the trust without interfering with the beneficiary's eligibility for public benefits. 2. Self-Settled Special Needs Trust: This trust is typically created using the assets of the person with special needs. It enables them to preserve their assets while still qualifying for means-tested government benefits, such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). 3. Pooled Special Needs Trust: This type of trust combines the assets of several beneficiaries with special needs into a single trust managed by a nonprofit organization. It offers professional management and allows for smaller individual contributions. The primary purpose of these trusts is to provide for the financial security of individuals with special needs by allowing them to retain government benefits while utilizing additional funds for supplemental needs. This ensures that quality medical care, education, housing, and other essentials are provided for throughout the beneficiary's lifetime. The Arkansas Trust Agreement — Family Special Needs is a legal mechanism that provides families with peace of mind, knowing that their loved ones with disabilities will be looked after without jeopardizing their access to vital assistance programs. It is highly advisable to consult with an experienced attorney specializing in special needs planning to ensure the trust agreement adheres to all state laws and regulations.