Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is one of the most important — and misunderstood — disability benefits for families. In this episode, Jeff Llewellyn explains how SSI works, who qualifies, and why age 18 is a critical planning milestone for individuals with disabilities.

You’ll learn how income and asset limits apply, what changes when parental finances no longer count, and why SSI often becomes the gateway to adult Medicaid and long-term services. Jeff also covers common planning tools — including ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts — and explains how to avoid benefit reductions caused by In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM).

This episode is ideal for parents, caregivers, and professionals looking for clear, practical guidance on SSI eligibility, transition planning, and long-term financial stability.

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn sits down with Brian Klazmer of Klazmer Financial Group for a deep conversation on how life and disability insurance really works for families with loved ones with special needs.

We unpack the essentials — from the structure of permanent vs. term coverage to advanced strategies like second-to-die policies, funding Special Needs Trusts, insuring caregivers, and coordinating coverage with SSI/Medicaid planning. Brian brings decades of experience and a clear, practical perspective families rarely get to hear.

You’ll learn:

• Why life insurance plays a unique role in special-needs financial planning
• Common mistakes families make when selecting coverage
• How to structure policies to support a Special Needs Trust
• The difference between insuring parents vs. siblings
• Underwriting considerations for families navigating disability
• When to review, replace, or reinforce existing coverage
• How life insurance integrates with your overall financial plan

Whether you’re a parent, a caregiver, or a professional serving families, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward with a safer, more sustainable plan.

Learn more about the Klazmer Financial Group (www.klazmerfinancial.com) and explore Rockwood Wealth Management (www.rockwoodwealth.com/special-needs-financial-planning).

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff Llewellyn sits down with Stephanie Lee Jackson, founder of Practical Sanctuary to explore how the spaces we live in can help — or hinder — our nervous systems.

Stephanie designs sensory-smart interiors for families, caregivers, and individuals with special needs. Together, we talk about how intentional design can reduce overwhelm, support regulation, and create calm, functional environments that truly meet your family’s needs.

You’ll learn:
🏡 How light, texture, layout, and color affect your nervous system
🧠 Why designing with regulation in mind is essential for neurodivergent and special-needs individuals
💬 Simple changes families can make to create more supportive and soothing spaces
💗 How caregivers can benefit from environments that restore their energy

Whether you’re a parent, professional, or planner, this conversation will help you rethink the role of your home — not just as a place to live, but as part of your care system.

🔗 Learn more about Stephanie Lee Jackson:
🌐 Website: https://practicalsanctuary.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/practicalsanctuary/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieleejacksonpracticalsanctuary/

About Secured Steps:
Hosted by Jeff Llewellyn, CFA®, CFP®, ChSNC®, Secured Steps is a series dedicated to helping families and professionals navigate life, money, and disability planning with clarity and confidence.
Learn more at https://rockwoodwealth.com/snfp

#SensoryDesign #Neurodiversity #SpecialNeedsFamilies #CaregiverWellbeing #HomeEnvironment #PracticalSanctuary #SecuredStepsPodcast #DisabilityPlanning