Bland Ewing Special Needs Trust
The Bland Ewing Special Needs Trust (BESNT) is a legal instrument that
allegedly protects funds donated to aide in Bland's care. As long as
these funds are not used for food, clothing or basic shelter, and do
not pay for items covered otherwise by MediCal, MediCare or Social
Security, they should be sheltered from these agencies. Please note
that donations directly to Bland could in fact affect his medical care
status, resulting in loss of benefits and of the very funds intended
for him. Those interested in details of such a document should contact
a lawyer experienced in elder law. If you are interested in donating
to the BESNT, please contact me at yandell@stat.wisc.edu.
It is good planning for all of us, but especially for those with
chronic health issues, to have the following other legal instruments
in place. These all require notarized signatures, and all should be
reviewed by a lawyer.
- Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care
- Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Management and Nomination
of Conservator
- Declaration of Trust (this is separate from the BESNT, and
concerns tangible personal property--bill of sale--and any checking or
other accounts)
- Will
- Declaration under CA Natural Death Act (or as appropriate for
other states)
Return to Ewing page.
Brian Yandell
(yandell@stat.wisc.edu)