Description
What Happens to My Child When I’m Gone? A Hard but Necessary Conversation
If you’ve ever quietly wondered what happens to your disabled child in the future, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, I sit down with Michael Ringel to talk about one of the biggest fears many families carry: how to plan ahead without making a costly mistake that affects benefits, housing, care, or long-term stability. We get into why so many families wait, what can go wrong with gifts or inheritance, and why “good intentions” can still create real problems later.
What stood out to me most is that this isn’t just about money on paper. It’s about reducing panic, creating more choice, and making sure support still works in real life. We also talk about ABLE accounts, special needs trusts, family communication, and the question many people avoid until it becomes urgent.
If you’ve felt overwhelmed by SSI rules, Medicaid concerns, or planning for adulthood and beyond, I think this episode will give you a clearer place to start while still leaving you with a few important questions to think through.
About the Guest
Michael Ringel works with families on long-term financial planning for disabled and neurodivergent loved ones. He focuses on helping families prepare for “two lifetimes” so future care, benefits, and financial support are better protected.
Key Timestamps
- 0:12 - The question many parents are afraid to ask out loud
- 3:04 - The mistake that can put benefits at risk
- 5:27 - Why support on paper can fail in real life
- 10:56 - Gifts and inheritance problems families often miss
- 15:19 - What ABLE accounts can and cannot do
- 20:04 - When a special needs trust may still matter
- 24:34 - Why these talks should happen before a crisis
- 32:34 - How to create a “playbook” for future caregivers
- 35:06 - When fear of losing benefits starts limiting life
- 38:48 - Where to find Michael’s book and resources
Michael's Resources:
- Website:planningfortolifetimes.com
- Book: Free download on the website, or purchase on Amazon for $5
- Phone:917-734-4748
- Email:mringle@strategiesforwealth.com
Affiliate: https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTION
Help Bring Fearless Footsteps into the World: https://paypal.me/fullconversation?locale.x=en_US&country.x=US
If this episode speaks to where you or your family are right now, listen all the way through and share it with someone who needs this conversation too. #NeurodivergentConnection #SpecialNeedsPlanning #DisabilitySupport #ABLEAccount #SSI
Hosted by Reid Miles.
Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.
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