Demystifying Special Needs Financial Planning: How Christian Urbina Helps Families Secure Their Future

For families with special needs, financial planning is not just about securing a future. Their idea behind the planning is to ensure dignity, care, and stability for loved ones. Christian Urbina, CFP®, CFA, President and Chief Investment Officer of Prosperitus Wealth Advisors, LLC, understands this deeply. His personal journey fuels his commitment to guiding families through the intricate landscape of financial tools and benefits available to support individuals with special needs. 

“I know firsthand how overwhelming the system can be,” states Urbina. “From asset limits to confusing benefits rules, many families simply don’t have the time, education, or financial resources to plan properly. But the right guidance can make all the difference.” 

For families raising children with disabilities, financial planning is about much more than money. It’s about answering questions most parents never have to think about:

Urbina says the most effective plans blend both private financial tools and public benefit programs to support the child now and far into the future. And yet, most families don’t even know where to begin. This financial advisor educates families around four key programs that form the backbone of financial support for individuals with disabilities.  

The first one is an ABLE account (Achieving a Better Life Experience), often compared to 529 college savings plans. It allows individuals with disabilities to save up to $100,000 without affecting their eligibility for government benefits like SSI and Medicaid. These accounts can be used for everyday expenses, medical needs, housing, and more. “ABLE accounts are one of the most powerful, yet underutilized tools out there,” Urbina explains.

SSI (Supplemental Security Income), on the other hand, provides a monthly income to children and adults with disabilities who have limited income and resources. However, the eligibility requirements are strict; exceeding certain asset or income thresholds can mean losing benefits. “This is where ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts come into play,” Urbina says. “They let families set money aside without jeopardizing SSI eligibility.” 

Unlike SSI, SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on an individual’s work history and contributions to Social Security. It’s typically for adults who become disabled later in life and can no longer work. While SSDI doesn’t have the same asset limits as SSI, it has income restrictions that can be confusing to navigate. 

One of the most critical lifelines for families with special needs, Medicaid provides not only healthcare but also long-term services like home care and respite assistance. However, it’s a federally funded program administered at the state level, meaning rules vary widely depending on where you live. “Medicaid is a maze,” Urbina explains. “Even after years of doing this work, I’m still learning new twists and turns. But one thing is for sure. Families need to be even more proactive about understanding and protecting their benefits.” 

For families with greater financial assets or those looking to leave an inheritance, ABLE accounts often aren’t enough. That’s where Special Needs Trusts come in. These legal entities allow families to set aside money for a child with disabilities without disqualifying them from public benefits. There are different types: first-party, third-party, or pooled. But choosing the wrong one can have long-term consequences. “These trusts require an attorney, proper funding, and ongoing management,” Urbina notes. “But they offer the flexibility and protection that many families need, especially those with other children or complex estates.” 

Urbina often works alongside estate planning attorneys, including his own wife, to help design, fund, and implement these trusts as part of a larger strategy. “We act as the quarterback, bringing in the right players, spotting the gaps, and making sure the entire plan works together.” 

According to a report from the National Disability Institute, over 40% of adults with disabilities live in poverty, and 85% have no access to financial advisors who specialize in special needs planning. That’s why Urbina dedicates a significant part of his time to pro bono work. As chair of the Financial Planning Association (FPA) of Miami Pro Bono Committee, he leads local efforts to serve low-income families who might otherwise fall through the cracks. 

As the landscape evolves, Urbina warns that planning should not be a one-time event for fellow citizens but an ongoing process. He states: “Families need to continuously reassess their plans, especially those relying on the benefits provided by entities. The rules can change overnight.” 

 The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances. We disclaim any liability for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of, or reliance on, the information presented. 

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