Understanding Special Disability Trusts: A Guide For Families

For families caring for a person with a severe disability, planning for their loved one’s long-term financial security can involve a range of complex legal, financial and social security considerations.

A Special Disability Trust (SDT) is one option available to eligible families seeking to provide for the current and future care and accommodation needs of a person with a severe disability. However, the rules surrounding eligibility, establishment, gifting concessions and ongoing compliance can be complex, and families may be unsure where to begin.

This article provides a straightforward introduction to SDTs, including how they operate, the potential benefits they can provide and some of the key considerations for families assessing whether a SDT may be appropriate for their circumstances.