Special Needs Trust
The special needs trusts program allows individuals to build assets while maintaining access to public benefits. The Arc of New Mexico offers The Arc of NM Special Needs Trust I and II, providing long-term financial planning options managed with transparency and oversight. The Arc of New Mexico has managed special needs trusts for over 20 years, and our trust administration includes professional investment management and regular financial oversight to ensure funds are handled responsibly.
These trusts support stability, choice, and planning for the future without relying on complex legal language or unnecessary barriers. Our special needs trust services are available to New Mexicans throughout the state.
Understanding Trusts for People with Disabilities
A special needs trust is a federally approved way for people with disabilities to protect benefits while still maintaining assets over the $2,000 limit required for most government benefits. At The Arc of New Mexico, we believe planning for the future is a critical part of caring for a loved one with a disability. Our Special Needs Trust is a pooled trust established to offer families a dependable, affordable way to provide financial security and an enhanced quality of life for their loved ones, while preserving the benefits that they depend on in their daily lives. Since its inception in 1998, our Trusts have also become an effective means of safeguarding money for individuals whose own resources threaten their ongoing eligibility for public benefits.
Key Features
- Investments professionally managed
- No minimum or maximum funding requirements
- Unlimited distribution requests
- Audited annually and quarterly to ensure accountability and fund security
Trust Types
Master Trust I
The Arc of New Mexico Pooled Master Trust I, established in 1998, is an irrevocable, self-funded trust. This type of account can be established with earnings, lottery winnings, direct inheritances, Social Security back payments, settlements, or judgement funds awarded to the person with the disability, as well as with monetary gifts. Master Trust I allows the beneficiary to maintain eligibility for government benefits- such as SSI, Medicaid, and Waiver programs. Upon the death of the beneficiary, any remainder funds in the trust will remain with the Arc of New Mexico to benefit other individuals with disabilities.
Master Trust II
The Arc of New Mexico Master Trust II, established in 1999, is a revocable third-party trust. A parent or other third-party can establish a special needs trust with their own funds for the benefit of a loved one with a disability. Only funds from others can be added to this type of account. Master Trust II allows the individual with the disability to maintain eligibility for government benefits. Upon the death of the beneficiary, any remaining funds from the trust can be designated to family, friends, and/or non-profit organizations.
How Do I Enroll?
To get started, we encourage you to contact the Trust Department to make an appointment to learn how to open a Master Trust I or Master Trust II Account. We will work closely with you and we will walk through the process together.The appointment will begin to establish a trust fiduciary relationship with you and the Arc of New Mexico Trust department. We will review how the pooled trust will benefit you and how the trust will enhance your quality of life. This process is to ensure the best fit for you and your circumstances. The Trust Director and/or Coordinator will review and complete the necessary documents with you to establish the trust. In addition, we will review the policies and forms with you to complete the enrollment process, including how to keep your document copies in a safe place.Call 505-883-4630 and ask for the Trust Department, or email arctrust@arcnm.org to set up an appointment.Now That You’re Enrolled!
The following document list are the ones you may refer to from time to time, including policies and procedures to guide you in accessing your trust, and other useful information.
Master Trust I Joinder Agreement
Important Information & Request Forms
Before you request funds, remember to review this guideline for Things You Can Use Trust Fund
Request Forms:
Master Trust Recurring Request