The One Inheritance Mistake That Can Cost SSI and Medicaid

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