When a family member with "special needs" is in your care, you should plan on how that support will continue when you are no longer around. Generally, in order for your family member to qualify for important government benefits, such as Medicaid, he or she has to turn over any inheritance they receive. However, a Special Needs Trust allows you to leave money for the beneficiary's care that will not count against government benefit thresholds, because the assets are still part of your estate, not your loved one's.