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Navigating Housing Challenges for Special Needs Families in California

August 30, 2024

Navigating Housing Challenges for Special Needs Families in California

When you think about what truly defines the quality of life for special needs beneficiaries, housing inevitably comes to the forefront—especially in a state like California. This is something I witness almost every day in my work, and it’s a frequent topic of conversation among parents who are deeply concerned about securing the best future for their children. The hurdles to finding and maintaining suitable housing are daunting, compounded by California’s high living costs and the limited financial support available through programs like Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP).

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Navigating the SSI Marriage Penalty: Insights from Lee Ann Hitchman

July 23, 2024

Navigating the SSI Marriage Penalty: Insights from Lee Ann Hitchman

In an ideal world, marriage should be a joyous occasion celebrated without hesitation. However, for many individuals with disabilities, tying the knot comes with severe financial repercussions. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, while intended to be a lifeline, often becomes a barrier, penalizing couples through outdated rules. This predicament forces many to choose between love and financial stability.

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Using CalABLE as a Distribution Tool for Special Needs Trusts

June 29, 2024

Using CalABLE as a Distribution Tool for Special Needs Trusts

CalABLE accounts are intended for individuals with disabilities who receive means-tested public benefits, to be able to save funds above the $2000 threshold allowed by Supplemental Security Income or SSI.  

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Planning for Those Special to You

June 25, 2024

Planning for Those Special to You

Last week, our own Hitchman Fiduciaries Founder and Managing Partner, Lee Ann Hitchman was a featured guest on Merhab Robinson & Clarkson’s enlightening webinar that delved into world of Special Needs Trusts.

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New Law Impacting Families with Children Who Have Disabilities

June 24, 2024

New Law Impacting Families with Children Who Have Disabilities

A new bill, introduced by Asm. Brian Maienschein, is on the verge of making a significant positive impact for families with children who have disabilities.

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Celebrating the Spirit of Independence and Care at Silverado Memory Care

April 18, 2024

Celebrating the Spirit of Independence and Care at Silverado Memory Care

Silverado Memory Care in Los Angeles has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the best senior living care provider for 2024. Their awards in a similar vein go back every year for over a decade. This award is a testament to the dedicated staff at Silverado, who provide exceptional care and support, ensuring that residents like Rosemary live life to the fullest in a community that values dignity and respect. 

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A Step in The Right Direction: Changes Coming to In-Kind Support and Maintenance

April 10, 2024

A Step in The Right Direction: Changes Coming to In-Kind Support and Maintenance

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently announced long awaited changes to the way it calculates its in-kind support and maintenance calculations. What does this mean for those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? 

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Deductibility of Caregiving Costs

March 25, 2024

Deductibility of Caregiving Costs

Some seniors as they age require the assistance of either an assisted living facility or in-home caregivers, which can be either non-medical or nursing. Fortunately, some of these costs may be deductible from income taxes as medical expenses.

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Lee Ann Hitchman, Partner, and Professional Fiduciary of Hitchman Fiduciaries, Receives NACCM Certification Achievement

September 11, 2023

Lee Ann Hitchman, Partner, and Professional Fiduciary of Hitchman Fiduciaries, Receives NACCM Certification Achievement

Hitchman Fiduciaries, a prominent fiduciary services and care management firm in Newport Beach, CA, is excited to announce that Lee Ann Hitchman's application for NACCM certification as a Certified Care Manager (CMC) has been approved, demonstrating their commitment to delivering top-notch care management services. This prestigious achievement grants Lee Ann Hitchman the "CMC" designation for the next three years, highlighting her dedication to professional excellence and continuous development in the ever-evolving field of care management.

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Lee Ann Hitchman, Partner and Professional Fiduciary of Hitchman Fiduciaries, Volunteers Her Time in a Local Financial Literacy Program

November 22, 2022

Lee Ann Hitchman, Partner and Professional Fiduciary of Hitchman Fiduciaries, Volunteers Her Time in a Local Financial Literacy Program

Lee Ann Hitchman, partner and professional fiduciary with Hitchman Fiduciaries, believes financial literacy is critical for future generations to live their best lives. In her free time, Lee Ann teaches young people critically needed skills to help them make smarter decisions at an earlier age. Topics include financial transactions such as obtaining a mortgage, managing or avoiding credit card debt, the value of saving and compounding, and financial best practices.

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