Special Needs Planning In Massachusetts: What Is A Letter Of Intent?

Are you a primary caregiver for a child, grandchild, or other loved one with special needs? If so, it is crucial that you put a comprehensive estate plan in place to protect their health, safety, and well-being. A letter of intent can be used to outline the daily needs of your vulnerable loved one. Here, our Boston special needs planning attorney explains the key things to know about a letter of intent. 

A Letter of Intent is Not Technically a Legal Document (But it is Invaluable) 

A letter of intent can be used to provide guidance for the care of a disabled or otherwise vulnerable loved one. While a letter of intent is not legally binding in Massachusetts, that does not make it any less important as part of a special needs estate planning strategy. A letter of intent serves as a guide for future caregivers, trustees, and courts. It provides critical insight into your loved one’s daily routines, their preferences, your preferences, and the overall goals. While not legally enforceable, it is often one of the most valuable tools in a special needs plan because it ensures continuity of care and it allows you to express personal knowledge. If issues arise, that letter of intent can absolutely be relevant evidence. 

What a Letter of Intent Should Include in Massachusetts (Special Needs Planning) 

If you are drafting a letter of intent as part of a special needs plan, it is imperative that it is customized to meet the unique needs of your loved ones. A strong letter of intent should cover the unique details that only a primary caregiver can provide. What that entails is case-by-case. Still, a letter of intent will often address the following:

• Medical Needs: You should provide information about diagnoses, medications, doctors, preferred hospitals, and any other medical needs.
• Daily Routines: It is also best to give guidance regarding things like sleeping habits, meal preferences, hygiene routines, and behavioral strategies.
• Education and Employment: To the extent that it is relevant, you should include details about school programs, vocational training, and learning accommodations.
• Social and Recreational Activities: You can enhance quality of life by providing details about friendships, hobbies, and community programs that enrich your loved one’s life.
• Family and Support Network: Finally, you should include the names and roles of relatives, guardians, and mentors who play a part in care. 

You can and should also include information about any specialized information that you believe that future caregivers should know to best protect the health, safety, well-being, and overall quality of life of your vulnerable loved one. 

Call Our Boston Estate Planning Lawyer for Special Needs Today

At Fisher Law LLC, our Massachusetts estate planning attorney for special needs planning is compassionate, experienced, and solutions-focused. If you have any questions about a letter of intent, please do not hesitate to contact us today. With an office in Norwood, we provide special needs planning services throughout the Greater Boston area.