Resources
Tools, guides, and resources to support your disability planning. Everything here is free. Nothing is gated.
The guides marked Special Needs Navigator were created by us. Everything else links to third-party tools and organizations — I've vetted each one and believe they're genuinely useful, but I don't control their content or availability. Always verify information with the relevant agency or a qualified professional before making decisions.
Planning Guides
Social Security Guide (Special Needs Navigator)
SSI, SSDI/DAC, Medicaid, Medicare, waivers, SNAP, housing vouchers, Special Needs Trusts, and ABLE accounts — explained in plain language for families. Includes an interactive benefits map showing how the programs connect and what decisions matter most.
How to Get the Most Out of Sage (Special Needs Navigator)
A plain-language guide to using Special Needs Navigator — how to start a session, how to use Sage in multiple languages, how to download your session summary, and how to continue where you left off.
Screening Tools
SNAP Screener: Not sure if your family qualifies for food assistance? This free tool from SNAPscreener.com takes about five minutes and tells you whether it's worth applying. No personal information required to get started. External site — not affiliated with Special Needs Navigator.
Benefit Finder
The federal government's official benefits screening tool. Answer a few questions, and it shows you which federal programs you may qualify for - including SSI, Medicaid, housing assistance, and more. A good starting point if you're not sure where to begin. External site - not affiliated with Special Needs Navigator.
BenefitsCheckUp
A free screening tool from the National Council on Aging. Covers over 2,000 federal, state, and local benefit programs - broader than Benefits.gov and worth running separately. Good for finding programs you might not know to look for. External site - not affiliated with Special Needs Navigator.
Find a Professional
Find a Special Needs Attorney - NAELA
The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys maintains a directory of attorneys who specialize in special needs planning, disability law, and elder law. If Sage tells you it's time to talk to an attorney, this is where to start. External site - not affiliated with Special Needs Navigator.
Find a Guardianship Attorney - NGA
The National Guardianship Association maintains a directory of professionals who specialize in guardianship and supported decision-making. If you're navigating the age-18 transition and need legal guidance, start here. External site - not affiliated with Special Needs Navigator.
Find a Special Needs Planner - ASNP
The Academy of Special Needs Planners maintains a directory of attorneys and financial professionals who specialize in planning for individuals with disabilities. When Sage refers you to an SNT attorney or special needs planner, this is one of the two directories it points to. External site - not affiliated with Special Needs Navigator.
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Family session — $14.99 | Professional session — $34.99