Special Needs

1983 was the last time that recipients of Social Security benefits saw a cost-of-living increase steeper than the one just announced for 2022. This coming year, benefits will rise 5.9 percent, the sharpest upsurge since 1983’s 7.4 percent jump for Social Security disability and retirement recipients. ...

A Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) is a rule under SSI to help people with disabilities return to work. If you receive SSI or could qualify for SSI after setting aside income or resources so you can pursue—or achieve—a work goal, you could benefit from a PASS. ...

National Deaf Awareness Week is the third week of September. This is a chance to learn more about deaf culture and the many ways in which we can communicate and stay connected. Here are some reliable pointers to help you communicate more comfortably with those who cannot hear. ...

All parents caring for disabled children are advised to write down what any successor caregiver would need to know about the child and what the parent’s wishes are for his or her care. This is important whether the child be in a group home, live with a parent, or be on his or her own. The parent knows best, but needs to pass on important information about medical issues, medication, diet, a “day in the life,” housing, outside activities, faith, personal values, finances, expenses, and more. A copy of the memo or letter can be kept in the attorney’s files with the parents’ estate plan. ...

The Social Security Administration pays monthly Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to people with disabilities who have low income and few resources, and people who are age 65 or older without disabilities who meet the financial limits. ...

It’s important that Deaf/HoH children and adults have access to American Sign Language (ASL) as a way to connect with the world around them. ASL interpreters help bridge the communications gap between the hearing and Deaf/HoH communities. ...

As long as the beneficiary never receives cash directly from the trust, his eligibility for government benefits will not be compromised. The funds from the trust can be used for services and programs that government benefits don’t pay for but that enhance the loved one’s quality of life, such as transportation, classes, hobbies, and vacations. ...

A Gift of Independence card can be a way to celebrate or reward a family member or anyone else with special needs who has opened an ABLE account.  The cards are offered in denominations from $25 to $200. There is no expiration date for redeeming the funds. ...