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In this conversation, Michelle sits down with special-needs family wealth strategist Michael Ringel to demystify the money side of raising complex kids—how to get organized fast, protect eligibility for services, and build a plan that cares for your child long after you’re gone.

Mike shares:

• Why families delay (and how to start in 15 minutes). Your financial life isn’t a mess—it’s a junk drawer. Mike’s free “Living Balance Sheet” tool turns scattered accounts into a single snapshot and scorecard so you know what is and what’s possible.
• Benefits without the gotchas. The big rule of thumb: assets over $2,000 in your child’s name can jeopardize SSI/Medicaid. How third-party Special Needs Trusts preserve benefits, and when an ABLE account (tax-advantaged, spendable for qualified needs) makes sense—plus the key difference on what happens to leftover funds.
• Funding the future (without wrecking today). Why many families combine term and permanent life insurance to ultimately fund a Special Needs Trust—while using riders and disability coverage to protect income now.
• Hope for the best, plan for the rest. Build a team—financial pro, special-needs attorney, and benefits optimizer—so you protect today, plan for tomorrow, and avoid painful “do-overs.”
• Cash-flow judo. Most households leak money in invisible ways. Mike shows how to capture “found dollars” to fund protection and long-term goals without lowering your lifestyle.

Quote to tape on the fridge:
“Something is worth what it can do for you—not the price you pay.”

Whether your child is 3 or 33, Mike’s message lands: get organized, protect eligibility, and set up funding so your child—and your whole family—can live a life without compromise.

👤 About Mike Ringel
For over 20 years, Mike has helped families with complex-needs children protect, grow, and enjoy their wealth—planning for two lifetimes while preserving access to vital services. He coordinates with attorneys and benefits specialists to quarterback a clear, compassionate plan.

🔗 Connect with Mike
Website: mikeringel.com
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mikeringel/

🧰 Get the Free Tool Mike mentioned: Ask Mike for access to the Living Balance Sheet to create your 15-minute snapshot and scorecard, then decide your next best step.

#ComplexKidsSimpleSolutions #SpecialNeedsPlanning #SpecialNeedsTrust #ABLEAccount #SSI #Medicaid #IEPParents #TwoLifetimesPlanning #ParentAdvocacy #CaregiverFinance

Listen to this episode and more at
https://wisdom4complexkids.com/complexkidssimplesolutions

🎧 Connect with Michelle:
Website: www.wisdom4complexkids.com
Instagram: @michellechoairy
Join the community: Wisdom 4 Complex Kids Facebook Group

💌 Have a question or want to share your story? Email Michelle at [email protected]

🧠 Want simple tools that actually work?
Download the free advocacy toolkit: wisdom4complexkids.com/the-ultimate-advocacy-toolkit-pdf