22^nd Annual Changes and Trends Affecting

Special Needs Trusts

Austin Feb 5-6, 2026 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Austin $675 Individual | $775 after Jan 22 $605 Group rate per person (5 registrants minimum) | $700 after Jan 22 $540 Group rate per person (10 registrants minimum) | $620 after Jan 22

Overview

The 22nd Annual Changes and Trends Affecting Special Needs Trusts brings together nationally recognized professionals in the Special Needs and Trusts field, features the latest updates and hot topics, and offers a great set of materials including sample forms, drafting tips, sample language, and resources. Join us in-person only in Austin, TX.

By attending this program, participants will be able to:

Identify the fundamentals of special needs trusts, including appropriate trust structures and common pitfalls.
Evaluate strategies for maximizing public benefits while maintaining eligibility for Medicaid and Social Security.
Apply ethical principles when advising trustees, beneficiaries, and families, including bias awareness and client relationship boundaries.
Implement best practices for administering unique trust situations (e.g., child support SNTs, DAC benefits)

Event Schedule

Program is subject to change.
All times are Central Time Zone.

Day 1 February 5, 2026
Day 2 February 6, 2026

Time

Credit

Subject

Speaker
Thursday Morning, Feb. 5, 2026
Presiding Officer:
Elisa Dillard Rainey, Rainey & Rainey, PLLC - Waco, TX
8:00 am

Registration and Exhibit Hall Opens

Includes continental breakfast.
8:20 am

Welcoming Remarks
8:30 am

1.00 hr

Special Needs Trusts 101: The Basics

An overview of the basics of special needs trusts and public benefits including selection of appropriate trust options, pitfalls to avoid, and case examples.

Molly Dear Abshire, Wright Abshire Attorneys, P.C. - Bellaire, TX

Molly Dear Abshire, Wright Abshire Attorneys, P.C. - Bellaire, TX
9:30 am

0.50 hr

Case Law Update

A review of recent significant, interesting and quirky special needs-oriented cases. Discuss the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," also known as OBBBA, and implications of this Act for special needs planners. Join us for a fast-paced review.

Elizabeth N.R. Friman, Fleming & Curti, PLC - Tucson, AZ

Elizabeth N.R. Friman, Fleming & Curti, PLC - Tucson, AZ
10:00 am

15-Minute Break
10:15 am

1.00 hr
0.25 hr ethics

Maximizing Public Benefits

Discuss how to identify what benefits your client has; what additional benefits they may be eligible for; what distributions by a trustee (or anyone) will make them ineligible; and what distributions will keep them eligible for those benefits.

H. Clyde Farrell, Farrell & Johnson PLLC - Austin, TX
Christina Lesher, The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC - Houston, TX

H. Clyde Farrell, Farrell & Johnson PLLC - Austin, TX
Christina Lesher, The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC - Houston, TX
11:15 am

0.50 hr ethics

Back to the Basics: Examining Our Biases and Building Better Connections

All professionals working with people with disabilities may carry unrealized assumptions, fears, and biases. This session invites participants to pause and reflect on how those hidden beliefs can shape interactions and the support we provide. Through personal stories, interactive discussion, and honest self-reflection, explore how our experiences and expectations may unintentionally influence the people we serve. By returning to the basics of human connection (curiosity, empathy, and awareness), we can strengthen our ability to see each client as an individual, building a more authentic, person-centered support structure.

Ashley Melero, The Arc of Texas - Austin, TX
Peter J. Wall, True Link Financial - Denver, CO

Ashley Melero, The Arc of Texas - Austin, TX
Peter J. Wall, True Link Financial - Denver, CO
11:45 am

0.50 hr ethics

Reporting Trusts to Medicaid and Social Security

You just established a new trust for a disabled beneficiary. Does it need to be reported to Social Security and Medicaid? Most likely the answer is “Yes!” This presentation discusses how, when, and where to report.

Scott Stebler, Stebler & Sulak, PLLC - Austin, TX

Scott Stebler, Stebler & Sulak, PLLC - Austin, TX
12:15 pm

Pick Up Lunch

Included in registration.
Thursday Afternoon, Feb. 5, 2026
Presiding Officer:
Regan S. Seliger, Austin, TX
LUNCHEON PRESENTATION
12:45 pm

0.75 hr
0.25 hr ethics

Looking Back to Look Forward: Planning for Special Needs Beneficiaries

Many families and individuals with disabilities are asking how the recently enacted "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" will affect their benefits and support programs. This program looks at those concerns through a long-term lens—examining how such changes might impact a 17-year-old with a significant disability who is expected to live another seventy years. By looking back over the past seventy years of disability and social service reform, we can better anticipate the challenges she is likely to face in the decades ahead. The session also highlights best practices for designing and administering special needs trusts that remain flexible, sustainable, and responsive to evolving legal, financial, and care environments.

Stephen W. Dale, The Dale Law Firm, PC - Pacheco, CA
Peter J. Wall, True Link Financial - Denver, CO

Stephen W. Dale, The Dale Law Firm, PC - Pacheco, CA
Peter J. Wall, True Link Financial - Denver, CO
1:30 pm

15-Minute Break
1:45 pm

0.75 hr

Medicaid Waivers from Beginning to End

Hear an overview of the Medicaid Waiver process from application through appeals including information on programs and services available in Texas for those with intellectual, developmental and/or mental health disabilities. Gain insight to the appeal process from intake to decision, including issues to spot along the way. Finally, a discussion on outreach strategies and connecting with communities to promote self-advocacy and the use legal assistance with Medicaid denials.

Elton N. Hutton, Dallas, TX
Debbie Murphy, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas - Dallas, TX

Elton N. Hutton, Dallas, TX
Debbie Murphy, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas - Dallas, TX
2:30 pm

0.75 hr

A View from HHSC

Gain insight on the topic of the termination of the special needs trust when a beneficiary passes away and there is a Medicaid lien owed. Hear the basics of the requirements of the Medicaid pay-back provision, how to contact the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to verify the Medicaid lien and obtain the lien payoff, and the process of settling the lien with the agency.

Leslea Tate Pickle, Texas Health and Human Services Commission - Austin, TX

Leslea Tate Pickle, Texas Health and Human Services Commission - Austin, TX
3:15 pm

15-Minute Break

Thank You to Our Break Sponsor
3:30 pm

0.50 hr

A Checklist of Tax Considerations for Trust and Will Modifications and Reformations

There are myriad valid reasons to modify a trust or reform a Will that may result in a seemingly favorable outcome for all involved. However, as the saying goes, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Practitioners must be alert to potential unwanted tax consequences that may be triggered by modifying or reforming estate planning documents.

Nikki L. Laing, Hallett & Perrin, P.C. - Dallas, TX

Nikki L. Laing, Hallett & Perrin, P.C. - Dallas, TX
4:00 pm

0.50 hr

Beneficiaries That Work – Important Questions to Ask and Strategies to Consider

Beneficiaries with special needs often find opportunities that provide meaningful personal benefits and generate income. As trustee managing a special trust for a beneficiary who is receiving income from performing work, it is imperative to understand how to advocate for a beneficiary and help that person remain eligible for government benefits.

Elizabeth N.R. Friman, Fleming & Curti, PLC - Tucson, AZ

Elizabeth N.R. Friman, Fleming & Curti, PLC - Tucson, AZ
4:30 pm

0.50 hr ethics

Forgetting Who Your Client Is

The cooperation between trustees, beneficiaries, and other interested parties often seen in Special Needs Trusts may create a trap for the unwary practitioner. This presentation provides practical guidance and ethical requirements for maintaining appropriate attorney/client relationships, not accidentally forming attorney/client relationships, and keeping in mind the client’s needs and duties in forwarding the progress of a SNT.

Jennifer L. Coulter, Townsend Allala, Coulter & Kludt, PLLC - El Paso, TX

Jennifer L. Coulter, Townsend Allala, Coulter & Kludt, PLLC - El Paso, TX
5:00 pm

Adjourn to Reception (5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. CT)

Join program faculty and attendees for drinks and hors d'oeuvres.

Thank You to Our Reception Sponsor

Time

Credit

Subject

Speaker
Friday Morning, Feb. 6, 2026
Presiding Officer:
Bryn A. Poland, Mayo & Poland PLLC - Baytown, TX
8:00 am

Conference Room and Exhibit Hall Opens

Includes continental breakfast.

Thank You to Our Breakfast Sponsor
8:30 am

1.00 hr

Planning for Remainder Beneficiaries and Successor Beneficiaries of Retirement Benefits

In view of the SECURE Act and the July 2024 final Treasury Regulations, this presentation discusses what to consider when planning for the distribution of retirement benefits beyond who should be named as the primary beneficiary of those benefits, including who can (or should) be named as remainder beneficiaries of the trust named as primary beneficiary of the retirement benefits and how should the contingent beneficiary of the retirement benefits be set up in the beneficiary designation form.

Karen S. Gerstner, Karen S. Gerstner & Associates, P.C. - Houston, TX

Karen S. Gerstner, Karen S. Gerstner & Associates, P.C. - Houston, TX
9:30 am

0.50 hr

ABLE Accounts 101

Gain insight into what Texans need to know about the age adjustment act.

Vanessa Goodson, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts - Austin, TX

Vanessa Goodson, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts - Austin, TX
10:00 am

15-Minute Break
10:15 am

1.00 hr

SSI Update

A review of recent SSA policy changes and initiatives from the past year and an alert to the future.

Kenneth Brown, Attorney at Law - Mt. Airy, MD

Kenneth Brown, Attorney at Law - Mt. Airy, MD
11:15 am

0.75 hr

Housing Options Panel

Explore the complex landscape of housing options for individuals with disabilities and beneficiaries who present placement challenges. Discuss practical, legal, and ethical considerations in finding and maintaining appropriate housing solutions when traditional placements are not viable.

Moderator:
Christina Lesher, The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC - Houston, TX
Panelists:
Robert Pierce, The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC - Houston, TX
Doug Reuschel, Sundance Care Specialists - Houston, TX

Moderator:
Christina Lesher, The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC - Houston, TX
Panelists:
Robert Pierce, The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC - Houston, TX
Doug Reuschel, Sundance Care Specialists - Houston, TX
12:00 pm

Pick Up Lunch

Included in registration.
Friday Afternoon, Feb. 6, 2026
Presiding Officer:
Haley D. Greer, The Arc of Texas - Austin, TX
LUNCHEON PRESENTATION
12:30 pm

1.00 hr
0.50 hr ethics

Advocate Options for SNT Elder Orphans

Elder Orphans, sometimes also called Unbefriended Elders or Solo Agers, comprise a unique set of the aging population. Their situation is often the result of circumstances rather than choice. This presentation examines those instances when the individual also has special needs and how to use the Trustee of a Special Needs Trust to provide critical support.

Moderator:
Marilyn G. Miller, Marilyn G. Miller, Attorney at Law - Dripping Springs, TX
Panelists:
Eiszel Le, National Care Advisors - Las Vegas, NV
Christina Lesher, The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC - Houston, TX
Nancy Sosa, Cadence Bank - Austin, TX

Moderator:
Marilyn G. Miller, Marilyn G. Miller, Attorney at Law - Dripping Springs, TX
Panelists:
Eiszel Le, National Care Advisors - Las Vegas, NV
Christina Lesher, The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC - Houston, TX
Nancy Sosa, Cadence Bank - Austin, TX
1:30 pm

30-Minute Break & Vendor Announcements

Thank You to Our Break Sponsor
2:00 pm

0.50 hr

Administration of Child Support SNTs

Child support can be ordered for an adult child with disabilities, and when ordered to be paid into a First-Party SNT and administered correctly, the support may not disqualify the beneficiary from government benefits. This presentation covers how to administer the SNT in this unique situation, including who to name as trustee, how to get the payments from the Attorney General’s office to the trust account, reporting the trust, and advising the trustee how to use the monthly funds when there are other children in the home or the parent has no other income. Also, discuss how to keep difficult parents at bay.

Tresi Moore Weeks, Weeks Law Firm - Plano, TX

Tresi Moore Weeks, Weeks Law Firm - Plano, TX
2:30 pm

0.50 hr

Disabled Adult Children's Program

This session covers basics of the benefit available to a disabled adult child of a worker under the Social Security program known as DAC (Disabled Adult Child's program), or CDB (Childhood Disability Benefit), including the transition from SSI to DAC, once the primary worker elects Social Security retirement benefits or dies.

Emily Donaldson, Arcare, Inc. - Overland Park, KS

Emily Donaldson, Arcare, Inc. - Overland Park, KS
3:00 pm

0.75 hr
0.50 hr ethics

Practical Legal and Ethical Advice about using AI

In 2026 all lawyers and clients are relying on AI whether they plan it or not, and because of the legal duties that lawyers have to their clients, it is essential that lawyers learn more. Also AI depends on Cloud Computing and related online terms and privacy policies, as a result lawyers need to understand Cloud Computing. Cybercriminals are using AI in 2026 so it is imperative that lawyers better understand Cybersecurity threats. Also, AI is in widespread use in eCommerce so lawyers need to understand how to help clients deal with AI in eCommerce.

Peter S. Vogel, Vogel IT Law - Dallas, TX

Peter S. Vogel, Vogel IT Law - Dallas, TX
3:45 pm

Adjourn

Day 1 February 5, 2026
Day 2 February 6, 2026

Download Schedule

Conference Faculty

Molly Dear Abshire

Wright Abshire Attorneys, P.C.
Bellaire, TX

Kenneth Brown

Attorney at Law
Mt. Airy, MD

Jennifer L. Coulter

Townsend Allala, Coulter & Kludt, PLLC
El Paso, TX

Stephen W. Dale

The Dale Law Firm, PC
Pacheco, CA

Emily Donaldson

Arcare, Inc.
Overland Park, KS

H. Clyde Farrell

Farrell & Johnson PLLC
Austin, TX

Elizabeth N.R. Friman

Fleming & Curti, PLC
Tucson, AZ

Karen S. Gerstner

Karen S. Gerstner & Associates, P.C.
Houston, TX

Vanessa Goodson

Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
Austin, TX

Elton N. Hutton

Dallas, TX

Nikki L. Laing

Hallett & Perrin, P.C.
Dallas, TX

Eiszel Le

National Care Advisors
Las Vegas, NV

Christina Lesher

The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC
Houston, TX

Ashley Melero

The Arc of Texas
Austin, TX

Marilyn G. Miller

Marilyn G. Miller, Attorney at Law
Dripping Springs, TX

Debbie Murphy

Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas
Dallas, TX

Leslea Tate Pickle

Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Austin, TX

Robert Pierce

The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC
Houston, TX

Doug Reuschel

Sundance Care Specialists
Houston, TX

Nancy Sosa

Cadence Bank
Austin, TX

Scott Stebler

Stebler & Sulak, PLLC
Austin, TX

Peter S. Vogel

Vogel IT Law
Dallas, TX

Peter J. Wall

True Link Financial
Denver, CO

Tresi Moore Weeks

Weeks Law Firm
Plano, TX

Planning Committee

Bryn A. Poland—Co-Chair

Mayo & Poland PLLC
Baytown, TX

Elisa Dillard Rainey—Co-Chair

Rainey & Rainey, PLLC
Waco, TX

April Rogers—Director

The University of Texas School of Law
Austin, TX

Jennifer L. Coulter

Townsend Allala, Coulter & Kludt, PLLC
El Paso, TX

Stephen W. Dale

The Dale Law Firm, PC
Pacheco, CA

H. Clyde Farrell

Farrell & Johnson PLLC
Austin, TX

Terry Garrett

The Garrett Law Firm, PLLC
Austin, TX

Haley D. Greer

The Arc of Texas
Austin, TX

John B. Henry III

Law Office of John B. Henry, III, PLLC
Bellaire, TX

Christina Lesher

The Law Office of Christina Lesher, PC
Houston, TX

Renée C. Lovelace

The Lovelace Law Firm, P.C.
Tyler, TX

Pi-Yi Mayo

Mayo & Poland PLLC
Baytown, TX

Marilyn G. Miller

Marilyn G. Miller, Attorney at Law
Dripping Springs, TX

Kristen Quinney Porter

Kristen Quinney Porter, LLC
New Braunfels, TX

Nancy Sosa

Cadence Bank
Austin, TX

Tresi Moore Weeks

Weeks Law Firm
Plano, TX

Credit Info

Austin

MCLE Credit

Texas – 13.25 hrs | 3.00 hrs Ethics
Legal Specialization(s): Estate Planning and Probate Law, Tax Law

You may claim your credit online in Your Briefcase, and UT Law CLE will report credit on your behalf to the State Bar of Texas. A Certificate of Attendance will be provided in Your Briefcase for your records. The system reports Texas CLE credit every Tuesday. If you are claiming credit in the last week of your birth month, self-report your CLE credit directly to the State Bar of Texas at texasbar.com, using the course number provided on your certificate of attendance.

California – 13.25 hrs | 3.00 hrs Ethics

You must claim your credit online in Your Briefcase, and will then be provided a Certificate of Attendance for your records. UT Law CLE is required to provide the State Bar with electronic attendance records for any MCLE participatory activity within 60 days of completion of the activity. The California licensee is responsible for reporting their compliance/credit hours earned to the State Bar at the end of their reporting period directly to the State Bar of California at calbar.ca.gov UT Law CLE will maintain Attendance Records for four years.

Oklahoma – 16.00 hrs | 3.50 hrs Ethics

You must claim and certify your credit online in Your Briefcase, then you will then be provided a Certificate of Attendance for your records. UT Law CLE will report credit on your behalf to the Oklahoma Bar Association within 30 days after the conference.

Pennsylvania – 13.00 hrs | 3.00 hrs Ethics

UT Law CLE is an approved provider of Pennsylvania credit, sponsor #236. You must claim your credit online in Your Briefcase, and will then be provided a Certificate of Attendance for your records. Attorney attendance will be reported to Pennsylvania within 2 weeks after credit is claimed . Attorneys are not able to report this credit on their own, and UT Law CLE pays all associated fees for the credit hours. Contact us at accreditation@utcle.org if you have additional questions.

Other States – 13.25 hrs | 3.00 hrs Ethics

Note on Self-Reporting Your Credits in Another State

If you wish to satisfy MCLE or other professional education requirements in another state for a program offered by the University of Texas School of Law, please check with the state bar or other licensing authority in that state to ensure it will qualify for self-reporting your credits.

You must claim and certify your credit online in Your Briefcase, you will then be provided a Certificate of Attendance for your records and to provided to other licensing authorities as needed.

MCLE credit is presented based on a 60-minute credit hour.

Other Credit

ICB Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) – 16.00 hrs

This conference has been approved by the American Bankers Association (ABA) for continuing education credits. Credit approvals are based on the relevance of the program to the ICB's certification exam outline. One credit is awarded for every 50 minutes of relevant instruction. You will receive a downloadable Certificate of Completion for your records. Self-report these credits at https://www.aba.com/training-events/certifications/certified-trust-and-fiduciary-advisor/maintain-ctfa.

Attendee Instructions for Submitting ABA CE Credit

» Attendees must self-submit credit by logging into their Certification Dashboard
» Hover over ‘ADD CE CREDIT’ and select ‘APPROVED NON-ABA CE’
» Enter key word(s) from program title or sponsor name(The University of Texas School of Law) and select your program from the search results
» Click ‘Request’ and when page refreshes click ‘Mark Complete’ to finalize submission

National Accounting CPE – 15.90 hrs

The University of Texas School of Law is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org.

Delivery Method: Group-Live

To comply with NASBA Standards, attendees claiming CPE credit must sign in to verify attendance for each segment. Attendance sign-in sheets will be available at the registration desk. You will need your CPA license number to sign in. A CPE Certificate of Completion will be provided once you claim and certify your credits in your UTCLE.org Briefcase at the conclusion of the conference.

Reporting: CPAs are responsible for reporting CPE credits earned to their state's accountancy board, and must retain appropriate documentation of their participation in learning activities. Visit your state’s reporting website for more information or www.nasba.org.

TX Accounting CPE – 15.90 hrs

The University of Texas School of Law (Provider #250) live conferences are presumptively approved by The Texas State Board of Public Accountancy for Texas Accounting CPE credit based on a 50-minute credit hour. Approved for general CPE credit only.

At the conference, you are welcome to sign in on the Accounting CPE Record of Attendance form at the registration desk, but we are now reporting all credit online. You will receive a Texas Accounting Certificate of Completion in Your Briefcase. Self-report your CPE credit directly to TSBPA. UT Law CLE will maintain Attendance Records for four years.

Contact us at accreditation@utcle.org if you have additional questions.

Key Dates

Austin – Feb 5-6, 2026 – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Austin

Austin

Individual
Last day for $575.00 Early Bird pricing: Oct 9, 2025
Last day for $675.00 Regular pricing: Jan 22, 2026
$775.00 for registrations received after this time

Group (5 registrants minimum)
Last day for $520.00 Early Bird pricing: Oct 9, 2025
Last day for $605.00 Regular pricing: Jan 22, 2026
$700.00 for registrations received after this time

Group (10 registrants minimum)
Last day for $460.00 Early Bird pricing: Oct 9, 2025
Last day for $540.00 Regular pricing: Jan 22, 2026
$620.00 for registrations received after this time

Cancellation Policy
Last day for full refund cancellation: Jan 30, 2026
$50 processing fee applied after this date
Last day for cancellation: Feb 2, 2026

Venue

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Austin

6505 N. Interstate 35
Austin, TX 78752-4346
512-454-3737
512-454-3737 (reservations)
Map

Accommodations

A limited number of rooms have been reserved at a special rate of $189 per night. Our special room rate is available until January 14, or until the room block is exhausted, whichever comes first. Book your room online here, or by calling 800-866-3126 and mentioning "UT Law Special Needs Trusts"

Parking Information

Daily or Overnight Self-parking: $10

Our Sponsors

Thank you to our sponsors! Click each logo below to learn more.

Legacy Enhancement

Legacy Enhancement
www.legacyenhancement.org/

Legacy Enhancement is a national non-profit corporation established to assist individuals who are disabled or have special needs. The goal of our special needs trust is to protect you and your loved ones’ current and future assets by managing funds for supplemental needs and enriching your overall quality of life. Your trust fund will be professionally managed and invested to provide long-lasting security and support. We strive to retain any public entitlements you or your loved one are owed, and work to assist with the needs not covered by benefits or insurance. Legacy Enhancement can assist you with every aspect involved in trust administration; including establishment of the trust, funds disbursement and bill pay, nurse care management, benefits coordination, and much more.
Cadence Asset Management & Trust

Cadence Asset Management & Trust
cadencebank.com/wealth-management

At Cadence, we believe that a customized wealth strategy plays a critical role in helping clients achieve a fulfilling life and lasting legacy. Averaging 20 years of experience each, our administrative advisors listen first to better understand our client’s definition of success, their goals and unique family dynamics. Whether it is planning for retirement, establishing a court-created or special needs trust, developing a customized investment strategy or transferring wealth to the next generation, Cadence’s innovative wealth management solutions can help clients overcome roadblocks and build a path to financial success. Cadence Trust & Asset Management has full-service office locations in Houston, Austin and Dallas.
American National Bank & Trust

American National Bank & Trust
www.amnat.com/trust/

American National Bank & Trust strives to provide a comprehensive range of wealth management services to achieve your goals of financial security and success. Only by listening carefully to our clients’ dreams, concerns, and unique needs can we develop the appropriate solutions to help achieve each clients’ financial and estate planning goals.

Our trust officers have on average more than 23 years of experience and multiple certifications allowing them to deliver the top level of service to our current clients and their future generations. We have expertise in trusts, estate administration, guardianships, 1301 and 142 trusts, special needs trusts, investments, retirement planning, and other individualized wealth management services.

With trust and wealth management offices across the state of Texas and our corporate headquarters in Wichita Falls, Texas, we are able to provide local experts to help your clients with all of their planning needs.
You can find more information about American National Bank & Trust at www.amnat.com.
Austin Trust Company

Austin Trust Company
www.austintrust.com/

Austin Trust Company was the first private trust company to be chartered by the Texas Department of Banking, receiving charter number T-001 in 1987. We remain the only locally owned and controlled institution that offers a full range of fiduciary services. Whether you have a straightforward trust, a copious, detailed estate or are establishing a Special Needs Trust to help a loved one living with a disability maintain their eligibility for benefit programs, we are here for you. To find out more about how we strive to go Beyond Wealth Management, please visit us at austintrust.com.
Special Needs Consultants

Special Needs Consultants
specialneedsconsultants.com/

Each day, families are forced to navigate alone the medical, educational, and financial hurdles that occur with caring for loved ones with special needs. Special Needs Consultants, LLC (SNC) wants to change that narrative.
Through hard work, determination and dedication, SNC strives to meet the clients where they’re at and partner with them on their journey, catering to each client’s needs.
Established in 2006, this small boutique firm’s mission is to joyfully serve those with disabilities and their families, while positively impacting the special needs community.

We are not afraid to “roll up our sleeves” and get in the trenches.
The Arc of Texas Master Pooled Trust

The Arc of Texas Master Pooled Trust
www.thearcoftexas.org/trust/

The Arc of Texas Master Pooled Trust (MPT) is a pooled SNT with an over 25 year history of serving Texans with disabilities and their families. Established with a commitment to promoting independence and safeguarding financial futures, this trust is a vital resource within the Texas disability community. With a person-centered focus, the MPT provides a unique and innovative solution for managing funds while preserving eligibility for government benefits.

Serving as a dependable ally, The Arc of Texas Master Pooled Trust navigates the complex landscape of government regulations and financial intricacies. By providing a streamlined and compassionate approach, the MPT empowers individuals to achieve their goals while maintaining the vital support systems that enhance their quality of life. The MPT stands as a testament to the organization's unwavering commitment to fostering financial well-being and autonomy within the diverse tapestry of the Texas disability community.
Frost

Frost
https://www.frostbank.com/

Founded in San Antonio in 1868, Frost is the banking, investments and insurance subsidiary of Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc. (NYSE: CFR), a financial holding company with $52.5 billion in assets at September 30, 2025. One of the 50 largest U.S. banks, Frost provides a full range of business and consumer banking products, investment and brokerage services, and insurance products to businesses and individuals in the Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Permian Basin, Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio regions.
Happy State Bank & Trust Co.

Happy State Bank & Trust Co.
happytrust.com

“The town without a frown,” Happy, Texas, got its first bank in 1908, then called First State Bank of Happy. In 1989, 10 local families from Canyon, Texas purchased the $10 million dollar bank that was listed as the 812th largest bank in Texas. Happy State Bank is now the 20th largest bank with 35 branches in 25 markets, and an asset size of $3.4 billion. In addition to being named a “Best Banks to Work For” five years in a row by American Banker, Happy is ranked the 3rd Best Bank in Texas and the 26th Best Bank in the Nation by Forbes. The Happy Trust Company was added in 2002 and currently manages over 400 million dollars in assets. Happy’s trust team has over 300 years of combined experience providing expertise in farm and ranch management, securities portfolio services, and mineral interest oversight. Consistent with Happy State Bank’s mission, the trust company thrives on building personal relationships with our clients while providing the highest level of fiduciary service.
National Care Advisors

National Care Advisors
www.nationalcareadvisors.com

National Care Advisors, founded in 2008, is a national nurse consulting firm providing life care planning, quality of life assessment, third-party benefit analysis, educational and litigation consulting as well as case management services for individuals with special needs and disabilities.

We work with attorneys, financial planners, trustees and their client families in all 50 states to navigate the complex financial and legal climate surrounding insurance, government benefits, and future cost projections. Sustainable quality of life should be attainable for any who seek it, no matter their abilities or special needs. Our case managers and consultants work to maximize quality of life within the available scope of resources. Learn more about us at www.nationalcareadvisors.com
True Link Financial

True Link Financial
www.truelinkfinancial.com/

True Link Financial, Inc., provides financial solutions for people with complex needs and those who care for them. As a dedicated partner to professional trustees throughout the country, True Link's online platform helps trustees manage spending, record-keeping, and reporting for more than 27,000 beneficiaries.

True Link Financial Advisors, LLC, provides investment management for 35+ pooled special needs trusts, bringing the leadership of nationally recognized investment professionals with decades of experience from leading financial institutions. Nonprofit trustees and other fiduciaries entrust us to manage more than $1.6 billion in assets.

Learn more at www.truelinkfinancial.com/investment-management
WealthCounsel

WealthCounsel
www.wealthcounsel.com/

WealthCounsel, developed by attorneys for attorneys, has proudly supported estate planning and elder law professionals for over twenty-five years. Our innovative software streamlines your practice with powerful tools like Wealth Docx® for estate planning, Elder Docx™ for elder law, Wealth Tracx® for trust administration, Business Docx® for business drafting, and Gun Docx® for firearm planning.

Take your practice further with dynamic coaching programs, legal content marketing, and continuing education opportunities. Whether you're building new skills or deepening your expertise, our live and on-demand courses offer valuable insights and CLE credit. You'll also be part of a collaborative attorney community—where questions are welcomed, ideas are exchanged, and a nationwide referral network helps you grow.
Family Tree Private Care

Family Tree Private Care
familytreecares.com/

Family Tree Private Care is a premier provider of concierge-level in-home care and care management services designed to help clients age safely, comfortably, and with dignity. Serving Texas, Colorado, and Oklahoma, Family Tree partners with families to deliver comprehensive solutions—from skilled nursing and personal caregiving to expert care management and coordination of complex medical needs. Our mission, Transforming the Aging Experience, guides every interaction as we provide compassionate, reliable support that enhances quality of life and peace of mind. Backed by a multidisciplinary team of nurses, care managers, and professional caregivers, Family Tree is dedicated to elevating standards in private care through clinical excellence, accountability, and personalized service.
Merrill: The Special Needs Team – Texas

Merrill: The Special Needs Team – Texas
fa.ml.com/snt

The Special Needs Team at Merrill Lynch is a deeply experienced group of industry professionals. We are dedicated to helping improve the long-term well-being of individuals who are unable to care for themselves by offering financial advice and guidance. Located in multiple offices, we work closely with private professional guardians and family members to provide budgeting, wealth planning and investing designed to assist those who are integral to the care of society’s most vulnerable: people with disabilities, elderly individuals with dementia, accident victims and other special needs populations.
Mir Care Consultants

Mir Care Consultants
mircareconsultants.com/

Founded in 2004, Mir Senior Care Management, Inc. & Care Consultants serves individuals faced with the challenges and complexities of aging and special needs by delivering the highest quality of life care management services. We exist to support our clients by providing personalized planning, consultation, education, advocacy, and resource navigation.
Services include:
Private Professional Guardianship Program
Holistic Care Planning
Licensed Medical Nursing Professionals
Licensed Social Work Professionals
Assess for Less Restrictive Alternatives
Crisis Intervention
Assessment and Client Support (Developmental, Intellectual, Mental Health, Physical Disabilities, Brain Injuries, & Chronic or Serious Illnesses)
Family Support and Guidance
We serve Central Texas, Corpus Christi, the Rio Grande, Houston, Brazos Valley Regions, and surrounding areas. Visit our website at www.mircareconsultants.com or call (512) 615-6116.
TEAM Risk Management Strategies

TEAM Risk Management Strategies
www.teamemployer.com/

TEAM is the nation’s leading all-in-one payroll and HR solution custom-built for fiduciaries whose clients pay caregivers, family members, or other service providers from a trust. Nationwide, TEAM provides an employer of record solution that manages all aspects of household employment including payroll, taxes, insurance, HR management, and employee lawsuits.

TEAM’s solution seamlessly addresses both the hassles of employee administration as well as the considerable risk of employment-related liability. In addition to handling payroll processing, TEAM manages all recordkeeping, tax reporting, and provides full-service access to human resources professionals and compliance experts. To ensure that fiduciaries and trust assets are fully protected, TEAM provides comprehensive workplace insurance and liability coverage, as well as compliance with ever-changing employment law.

Founded in 2003, TEAM has served more than 450 of the nation’s most prominent banks and financial institutions and employs thousands of people in all 50 states.
Texas ABLE Program – A Savings Program for Texans with Disabilities

Texas ABLE Program – A Savings Program for Texans with Disabilities
www.texasable.org/

The Texas ABLE Program: A savings program for Texans with disabilities. The Texas Achieving A Better Life Experience (Texas ABLE®) program gives Texans with disabilities and their families the opportunity to save for disability - related expenses in a tax-advantaged ABLE account. Your clients may be able to save for a loved one's disability expenses without affecting eligibility for public benefits.

Funds in an ABLE account can be used to pay for qualified disability expenses that relate to the beneficiary disability and are used to maintain or improve his or her health, independence or quality of life. Texas ABLE is based on federal and state legislation and is maintained by the state through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
Learn more and enroll online at TexasABLE.org. 844-4TX-ABLE (844-489-2253)
CustomerService@TexasABLE.org

Special Needs Trusts

Overview

Event Schedule

Thursday Morning, Feb. 5, 2026

Thursday Afternoon, Feb. 5, 2026

Friday Morning, Feb. 6, 2026

Friday Afternoon, Feb. 6, 2026

Conference Faculty

Planning Committee

Credit Info

MCLE Credit

Other Credit

Key Dates

Venue

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Austin

Accommodations

Parking Information

Our Sponsors

Legacy Enhancement

Cadence Asset Management & Trust

American National Bank & Trust

Austin Trust Company

Special Needs Consultants

The Arc of Texas Master Pooled Trust

Frost

Happy State Bank & Trust Co.

National Care Advisors

True Link Financial

WealthCounsel

Family Tree Private Care

Merrill: The Special Needs Team – Texas

Mir Care Consultants

TEAM Risk Management Strategies

Texas ABLE Program – A Savings Program for Texans with Disabilities

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