Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC®): What it Means and Why it Matters

​A Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC®) is a financial professional with specialized training to address the unique legal and financial planning requirements of individuals with disabilities and their families. ChSNCs are proficient in areas such as special needs trusts, life insurance, government benefits, estate planning, tax planning, medical expenses, and retirement planning for those with special needs. They are also knowledgeable about the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, which enables states to create tax-advantaged savings programs for people with disabilities.

How do financial advisors earn the ChSNC® designation?

To obtain the ChSNC® designation, candidates must fulfill specific education and experience requirements set by The American College of Financial Services. This includes completing a series of three online courses:​

• Introduction to Disability and Lifetime Planning​
• Legal and Financial Issues for Special Needs Families​
• Financial Planning for Caring for Those with Special Needs​

Additionally, candidates must have at least five years of professional experience in financial services or law practice, or an undergraduate degree with four years of relevant experience. They are also required to adhere to The American College’s Code of Ethics and comply with its Professional Recertification Program, which involves completing continuing education requirements every two years.

Benefits of Working with a ChSNC®

Engaging a ChSNC® offers several advantages for families with special needs:​

• Expertise in Special Needs Planning: ChSNCs possess in-depth knowledge of the financial and legal aspects pertinent to special needs families, ensuring comprehensive and tailored planning. ​
• Navigating Government Benefits: They can guide families through the complexities of government programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid, helping to maximize available benefits without jeopardizing eligibility. ​
• Establishing Special Needs Trusts: ChSNCs assist in creating and managing special needs trusts, safeguarding assets for the individual with disabilities while preserving access to public assistance programs. ​
• Long-Term Financial Security: They develop strategies to ensure the long-term financial well-being of individuals with special needs, addressing concerns such as future care, housing, and quality of life. ​

Summary

A Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC®) is a financial professional equipped with specialized training to support the distinct financial and legal needs of individuals with disabilities and their families. By collaborating with a ChSNC®, families can effectively navigate the complexities of special needs planning, ensuring a secure and enriched future for their loved ones.​

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Governing Body: The ChSNC® designation is conferred by The American College of Financial Services. ​

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FAQs

What distinguishes a ChSNC® from other financial advisors?

A ChSNC® has specialized training focused specifically on the financial and legal challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, setting them apart from general financial advisors. ​

Can a ChSNC® help with securing government benefits for my child with special needs?

Yes, a ChSNC® can guide you through the process of applying for and maintaining eligibility for government benefits such as SSI and Medicaid.

Is it necessary to work with a ChSNC® for special needs financial planning?

While not mandatory, collaborating with a ChSNC® ensures that you receive expert advice tailored to the unique needs of special needs planning, which may not be within the expertise of general financial advisors. ​

How can I verify if a financial advisor holds the ChSNC® designation?

You can verify an advisor’s ChSNC® designation by visiting The American College of Financial Services’ website and using their verification tool. ​

Do ChSNC® professionals only work with families of children with disabilities?

No, ChSNC® professionals assist individuals with disabilities of all ages, as well as their families, in planning for long-term financial security and quality of life.