In Louisiana, Continuing Tutorship allows parents or guardians to maintain legal authority over a child with developmental disabilities after the child turns 18. This legal process ensures that the young adult is treated as a minor for decision-making purposes, allowing parents to continue managing healthcare, education, and financial matters on their behalf.

The process can begin once the child turns 15 and must be completed before they reach age 18. It requires a court petition and supporting documentation, such as a psychological or medical evaluation confirming the disability. Continuing Tutorship provides families with a structured, protective framework to support their child’s long-term needs into adulthood.

In Louisiana, Special Needs Trust (SNT) planning allows families to set aside funds for a loved one with disabilities without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits like Medicaid or SSI. These trusts are designed to pay for supplemental needs—such as therapy, transportation, or recreational activities—that improve quality of life but aren’t covered by public assistance.

Special Needs Trusts can be funded by family members (third-party SNT) or by the individual’s own assets (first-party SNT), and must follow specific legal rules to preserve benefits. A properly drafted SNT is managed by a trustee who controls distributions and ensures compliance with federal and Louisiana laws. This type of planning gives families peace of mind knowing their loved one will be cared for financially, without losing vital support services.

ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) Accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing eligibility for government benefits like Medicaid or SSI. Funds in an ABLE account can be used for housing, education, transportation, healthcare, and more—all while remaining tax-free if used properly.

To qualify, the disability must have occurred before age 26, and the account holder must meet Social Security’s disability criteria. These accounts are a powerful tool for promoting independence and financial security for individuals with disabilities.