Letter of Intent

One of the most common questions a parent of a child with special needs asks is, “What happens to them when something happens to me? How can we ensure our child will remain well cared for and secure once others assume the role of guardian or caregiver?” You know your child better than anyone else. You know their preferences and dislikes, their health history, and the resources they are currently utilizing. More than any kind of financial support you can provide your child, it is your knowledge of what makes them tick that is most valuable. Having a well-thought-out and documented Letter of Intent is one of the best ways you can make sure that the already difficult time of transitioning to a new caregiver is as smooth as possible. 

What is a Letter of Intent? A Letter of Intent is a document, prepared by you, describing your child’s and your vision for their life. It outlines specific information future caregivers will need such as their healthcare and therapeutic needs, their lifestyle preferences, the contact information for doctors, therapists, and teachers, and their current and future projected financial picture. No less important, it conveys insights into your child’s personality and history that future caregivers may not know on their own.

While this document is not legally binding, the Letter of Intent is one of the most important documents you can complete for the well-being of your child. Without it, the responsibility of learning everything it took years for you to learn about your child will fall on the shoulders of the new caregiver and your child.