Overcoming Resistance to Estate Planning When You Have a Child With Special Needs

As a parent of a child with special needs, you face unique challenges every day. You've mastered the art of juggling doctor's appointments, therapy sessions, and educational plans. However, one crucial task often gets pushed to the back burner: estate planning. While it's a topic many prefer to avoid, it's especially critical for parents like you. This article will explore the common roadblocks that prevent parents from creating their estate plans and offer practical solutions to overcome them.

You've poured your heart and soul into caring for your child. The thought of not being there for them is heart-wrenching. It's no wonder that many parents struggle with the emotional weight of estate planning. You might avoid the topic altogether, pushing it off for "someday."

But here's the truth: planning for your child's future is one of the most loving acts you can perform. By facing this challenge head-on, you're ensuring that your child will be cared for according to your wishes, even when you can no longer provide that care yourself.

To overcome this emotional hurdle:

Start small. Begin by conversing with your partner or trusted family members about your hopes and concerns for your child's future.

Seek support from other parents in similar situations. Join support groups or online forums to share experiences and gather advice.

Remember that estate planning is an act of love. Think of it as a gift you're giving your child rather than a painful necessity or even a burden.

Work with a trusted lawyer who can support you through the process. I can help you establish your plan and will hold your hand every step of the way. I’ll do the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to. Read to the end to find out how to schedule a call with me.

Between work, medical appointments, and the day-to-day care of your child, finding time for estate planning can feel impossible. Add in the potential legal and financial planning costs, and it's easy to see why many parents put it off.

However, the consequences of needing a plan in place can be severe. With proper planning, your child could access crucial government benefits or have sufficient resources for long-term care. Or, they could end up with caretakers you’d never want.

Here's how you can find the time and resources to prioritize estate planning:

Set small, achievable goals. Instead of considering estate planning a considerable undertaking, start with one step. Look at your calendar and pick a time to book a call with me. I can take it from there.

Use your support network. Ask family members or friends to help with childcare or other tasks to free up time for planning.

Consider the long-term savings. If the potential cost seems overwhelming, know that creating a plan now will save your family money and stress in the long run. Plus, when you work with me, we’ll create a plan that fits you, your family, and your budget.

Estate planning for your special needs child may seem daunting, but it's a critical step in securing their future. You can overcome the common barriers that hold many parents back by addressing the emotional challenges, seeking support, and finding ways to prioritize planning.

Start today by taking one small step. Maybe it's conversing with your partner about your wishes for your child's future. Perhaps it's booking a call with me. Whatever you choose, remember that every step forward is a step towards your child's peace of mind and security.

Your love for your child has guided you through countless challenges. Let that same love motivate you to tackle this important task. Your future self—and, more importantly, your child—will thank you.

Raising a child with special needs comes with unique responsibilities, and estate planning can feel like one of the most overwhelming tasks. However, we can help you create a comprehensive plan that ensures your child’s needs are met now and in the future. We’ll do the heavy lifting so you get your plan done, and we’ll be there to support you and your family for years to come.

Book a call with us, and let us get you on the road to peace of mind. Contact us today to get started.

This article is a service of Ralston Law, a Personal Family Lawyer® Firm. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That's why we offer a Family Wealth Planning Session™, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before and make all the best choices for the people you love.

The content is sourced from Personal Family Lawyer® for use by Personal Family Lawyer® firms, a source believed to be providing accurate information. This material was created for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as ERISA, tax, legal, or investment advice. If you are seeking legal advice specific to your needs, such advice services must be obtained on your own separate from this educational material.