No parent wants to imagine a time when they cannot care for their child. And yet, if all goes well, our children will outlive us. It’s crucial that parents plan ahead so that their wishes are honored and their children cared for.

Making an estate plan is an act of love and foresight for any parent, but it holds special significance for those raising children who are deaf or hard of hearing, and for those raising children with additional disabilities. Planning is about ensuring that your child will always have the care, support, and stability they need, even if you are not there to supply it.

Planning ahead provides peace of mind. It’s a way to protect your child’s future and ensure their unique needs are met. Will your child need access to Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in the future? Without careful planning, your child’s financial security or access to these essential benefits could be at risk. These programs are often lifelines, and maintaining eligibility for them can make all the difference in your child’s quality of life.

Beyond financial considerations, estate planning allows you to make thoughtful decisions about who will care for your child if you’re no longer able to. This includes identifying people who will love and understand your child as you do. You can also create documents that ensure that your wishes—from daily routines to long-term goals—are respected and followed. By planning ahead, you’re giving your child the gift of security, and yourself the peace of mind that comes from knowing their future is protected.

The process can feel overwhelming, but it’s also empowering. To help DHH parents begin planning for their children’s future, FHSR hosted a virtual presentation from Margot Gordon of Monahan Law Group, LLC, an Illinois Super Lawyer and top legal professional in the field of estate planning. Margot outlined for parents the essential legal documents needed to ensure their child is cared for in the event of their death, and delve into the unique considerations for the deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) community, including when and how to establish a special needs trust to secure your child’s future. This session was designed to provide clarity, peace of mind, and actionable steps for planning ahead.