A North Carolina Trust Agreement — Family Special Needs is a legal document that helps families plan for the financial future of a loved one with special needs in North Carolina. This agreement offers a comprehensive and structured approach to safeguard the assets and provide for the unique needs of individuals with disabilities or other special needs. A Family Special Needs Trust in North Carolina is generally created to make provision for a person with special needs while ensuring they remain eligible for public assistance programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, or other means-tested government benefits. This type of trust agreement enables families to protect their loved one's assets without jeopardizing their eligibility for such crucial assistance programs. There are different variations or types of North Carolina Trust Agreement — Family Special Needs, depending on the specific circumstances and objectives of the family. Some commonly used trust agreements include: 1. Third-Party Special Needs Trust: This type of trust is established by a parent, grandparent, or another family member and funded with their own assets. It allows them to provide additional financial support for their loved one without interfering with their eligibility for public benefits. 2. Self-Settled or First-Party Special Needs Trust: Also known as a "payback" trust, this type of trust is funded with the assets of the individual with special needs, such as inheritance or personal injury settlement. It allows them to retain ownership and control over their assets while maintaining eligibility for government benefits. However, upon the beneficiary's death, any remaining funds in the trust must be used to reimburse the state for any Medicaid benefits received by the individual. 3. Pooled Special Needs Trust: This type of trust is administered by a nonprofit organization and combines the assets of multiple individuals with special needs for investment purposes. Each trust account is maintained separately and managed by the organization, providing professional oversight and support. Pooled special needs trusts can be a viable option for families who do not have substantial assets to create an individual trust. The North Carolina Trust Agreement — Family Special Needs serves as an essential tool in creating a sustainable and secure financial future for individuals with special needs. It ensures that their assets are managed wisely, allows for the supplement of government benefits, and provides peace of mind for families knowing their loved one's needs will be met even after they are no longer able to provide care directly.