Parents employed in LGI Homes may relate to how raising a child is expensive and can cost a quarter of a million dollars, not including college. For a child with special needs, that cost can more than double.1 If you’re the parent of a special needs child, it’s vital to ensure your child will continue to be provided for after you’re gone. It can be difficult to contemplate, but with patience, love, and perseverance, a long-term strategy is attainable and can help bring some peace of mind.
Envisioning a Life Without You
Just as every child with special needs is unique, so too are the challenges facing their families when planning for the long term. As an employee of LGI Homes, you must think about the potential needs of your child. Will they require daily custodial care? Ongoing medical treatments? Will your child live alone or in a group home? Can family members assume some of the care? Answers to these and other questions can help form the vision of what may need to be done to plan for your child’s care.
Planning Your Estate
Without proper planning, your child’s lifetime needs can quickly outstrip your funds. With that under consideration, those in LGI Homes may want to consider government benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid, which your child may qualify for depending on their situation. Because such government programs have low-asset thresholds for qualification, you may want to consider whether to make property transfers to your special needs child.
As an employee of LGI Homes, you should also make sure you have an up-to-date will that reflects your wishes. Consider creating a special needs trust, the assets of which can be structured to fund your child’s care without disqualifying them from government assistance.2
Involve the Family
All affected family members should be involved in the decision-making process. If at all possible, it’s best to have a united front of surviving family members to care for your child after you’ve passed on.
Identify a Caregiver
In order for a caregiver to make financial and health care decisions after your child reaches adulthood, the caregiver must be appointed as a guardian. Those in LGI Homes may want to consider how this can take time, so start setting this in motion as soon as you can amidst your busy work schedule.
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To do this, you can write a “Letter of Intent” to the caregiver and family to express your wishes along with information about your child’s care. LGI Homes parents must acknowledge that although this isn’t a legal document, it may help to communicate your desires. Store this letter alongside your will, in a safe place.
LGI Homes parents must understand that planning for a child with special needs can be complicated and overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Working with loved ones and qualified professionals can help you navigate the various facets of this challenge. If we can help, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
1. Policygenius, 2019
2. Using a trust involves a complex set of tax rules and regulations. Before moving forward with a trust, consider working with a professional who is familiar with the rules and regulations.
What is the 401(k) plan offered by LGI Homes?
The 401(k) plan at LGI Homes is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.
How does LGI Homes match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
LGI Homes offers a company match on employee contributions, which helps to enhance your retirement savings.
When can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at LGI Homes?
Employees at LGI Homes can enroll in the 401(k) plan during their initial onboarding process or during the annual open enrollment period.
What is the vesting schedule for LGI Homes' 401(k) match?
The vesting schedule for LGI Homes' 401(k) match typically requires employees to work for a certain number of years before they fully own the matched funds.
Can I change my contribution amount to the LGI Homes 401(k) plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution amount to the LGI Homes 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.
What investment options are available in the LGI Homes 401(k) plan?
The LGI Homes 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.
Is there a loan option available through the LGI Homes 401(k) plan?
Yes, LGI Homes allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance under certain conditions.
How can I access my LGI Homes 401(k) account information?
Employees can access their LGI Homes 401(k) account information online through the plan’s designated website or mobile app.
What happens to my LGI Homes 401(k) if I leave the company?
If you leave LGI Homes, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it with LGI Homes.
Does LGI Homes offer financial planning resources for 401(k) participants?
Yes, LGI Homes provides access to financial planning resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) investments.