Program Details
2026-10-29 14:30:00
Over 1,000+ webinars
Course Overview
2026-10-29 14:30:00
2h CLE Credits
Intermediate
2
2:30 pm - 3:30 pm ESTThis session explains the recent major SSI policy changes that took effect in 2024, including the overhaul of in-kind support and maintenance (ISM) rules, with a focus on how trustees of special needs trusts must now approach food and shelter disbursements. Attendees will learn how the new ISM framework treats food and shelter, how the national PMV standard reshapes rent payment strategies, which housing related expenses still reduce SSI. Attendees will leave able to advise trustees on structuring disbursements to preserve SSI and Medicaid benefits.
Meredith H. Greene
Michelle M. Mulvena 3:40 pm - 4:40 pm ESTThis session explores how special needs trusts and ABLE accounts work together under the recent SSI policy changes, including the 2024 overhaul of in-kind support and maintenance rules and the 2026 expansion of ABLE eligibility. Participants will learn the core contribution rules, how ABLE accounts can be used to manage shelter and other sensitive expenses without triggering SSI reductions, and how trusts and ABLE accounts can be structured to balance long term asset protection with flexible daily spending. The program also reviews Medicaid payback considerations and when robust ABLE funding is appropriate. Attendees will leave prepared to review existing plans, identify beneficiaries who now qualify for ABLE accounts, and design coordinated strategies that preserve SSI benefits while expanding practical support.
Meredith H. GreeneMichelle M. MulvenaMeredith Greene is a partner in Day Pitney’s Boston office and coleader of the firm’s Special Needs Planning practice. She advises individuals and families on special needs planning, government benefits advocacy, guardianship, conservatorship, adult services advocacy, and estate planning, and she serves as a professional trustee on special needs trusts. Her recent client publications include “ABLE Accounts in 2026: Who Qualifies, What’s Changed, and Why It Matters” and “Recent Changes to SSI Housing Rules Make it Easier to Qualify for Full Federal Benefits.”
Michelle M. Mulvena, Esq. is the principal at Mulvena Winston, PC in Stoneham, where she has developed a thriving fiduciary services practice serving as trustee, conservator, and personal representative. Practicing law for over 20 years, she works primarily in estate planning, Medicaid and disability planning, guardianships/conservatorships, and probate and trust administration, helping families, seniors, and disabled individuals retain their independence and dignity through proper planning.
Meredith Greene is a partner in Day Pitney’s Boston office and coleader of the firm’s Special Needs Planning practice. She advises individuals and families on special needs planning, government benefits advocacy, guardianship, conservatorship, adult services advocacy, and estate planning, and she serves as a professional trustee on special needs trusts. Her recent client publications include “ABLE Accounts in 2026: Who Qualifies, What’s Changed, and Why It Matters” and “Recent Changes to SSI Housing Rules Make it Easier to Qualify for Full Federal Benefits.”
Michelle M. Mulvena, Esq. is the principal at Mulvena Winston, PC in Stoneham, where she has developed a thriving fiduciary services practice serving as trustee, conservator, and personal representative. Practicing law for over 20 years, she works primarily in estate planning, Medicaid and disability planning, guardianships/conservatorships, and probate and trust administration, helping families, seniors, and disabled individuals retain their independence and dignity through proper planning.
Requirements
The Alabama State Bar MCLE Commission requires attorneys to complete 12 credits, including 1 ethics, by December 31 of each year. All credits must be reported by February 15 of the following year. A maximum of 12 credits, including 1 ethics credit, may be carried over for 1 year only.
Formats
