The question of whether a special needs trust (SNT) can fund virtual fitness coaching services is a common one, and the answer, as with many legal matters, is “it depends.” SNTs are designed to supplement, not replace, government benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. Therefore, any expenditure from the trust must align with this principle; funding fitness coaching requires careful consideration to ensure it doesn’t jeopardize these crucial benefits. Generally, if the services are deemed medically necessary or contribute to the beneficiary’s overall health and well-being *without* providing something they could otherwise obtain through public assistance, it’s more likely to be permissible. Currently, over 65 million Americans live with disabilities, and many rely on SNTs to enhance their quality of life – but responsible administration is key.
What qualifies as a permissible expense from a Special Needs Trust?
Permissible expenses typically fall into categories that enhance the beneficiary’s quality of life *beyond* what government programs provide. This includes things like therapies not covered by insurance, specialized equipment, recreation, education, and sometimes, even personal care. The key is demonstrating that the expense isn’t simply a luxury but contributes to the beneficiary’s health, maintenance, or education. For instance, if a beneficiary has limited mobility and a virtual fitness coach designs a program to improve their strength and range of motion, aiding their independence, it’s a stronger case than simply funding general wellness activities. According to the National Disability Rights Network, approximately 26% of individuals with disabilities live in poverty, highlighting the importance of carefully managing trust assets to maximize their impact.
Could virtual fitness coaching be considered a ‘medical’ expense?
This is where it gets tricky. To be classified as a medical expense, the virtual fitness coaching would likely need to be prescribed by a physician as part of a broader treatment plan. Simply wanting to “get in shape” wouldn’t suffice. Documentation from the doctor outlining the medical necessity—perhaps addressing a specific health condition, a need to improve physical function to assist with daily living activities, or a rehabilitation goal—would be critical. Consider the case of old Mr. Abernathy, a retired carpenter who suffered a stroke. His SNT initially denied funding for virtual physiotherapy sessions because they were framed as “general fitness”. Following a doctor’s recommendation framing the program as essential rehabilitation to regain lost motor skills, the request was approved.
What happened when a trust didn’t cover necessary support?
I once worked with a family whose adult son, David, had Down syndrome and an SNT. They enthusiastically signed him up for a virtual adaptive yoga program designed specifically for individuals with developmental disabilities, believing it would be beneficial for his flexibility, coordination, and emotional well-being. However, they hadn’t sought prior approval from the trust administrator. When they submitted the invoices, they were denied. The administrator argued the program wasn’t explicitly “medical” and appeared to be a recreational activity. David, understandably upset, felt like his opportunity to participate in something he enjoyed was unjustly taken away. The family had to appeal, incurring legal fees and causing significant stress. This situation underscores the vital importance of *proactive* communication with the trust administrator, and obtaining pre-approval before incurring any expenses.
How did proactive planning ensure a positive outcome?
Fortunately, another client, Maria, had a different experience. Her daughter, Sofia, has cerebral palsy and used a virtual aquatic therapy program through her SNT. Before starting, Maria meticulously documented the program’s therapeutic benefits, obtained a letter from Sofia’s physical therapist clearly stating the necessity of the water-based exercise for her muscle strength and range of motion, and secured pre-approval from the trust administrator. This proactive approach ensured a smooth process and avoided any complications. Sofia thrived in the program, gaining confidence and improving her physical abilities. The key takeaway is that with careful planning, proper documentation, and pre-approval, SNTs *can* be used to fund valuable services like virtual fitness coaching, ultimately enhancing the beneficiary’s quality of life and promoting independence. It’s also important to remember that approximately 70% of individuals with long-term disabilities rely on family and friends for support, making responsible trust management even more crucial.
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About Steve Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is Temecula Probate Law. The Law Firm Of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is a Temecula Estate Planning Attorney. Steve Bliss is an experienced probate attorney. Steve Bliss is an Estate Planning Lawyer. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Steve Bliss Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Steve Bliss Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Steve Bliss Law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate. Call Steve Bliss Law Today for estate planning, trusts and probate.
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