Tools, guides, and resources to help you navigate disability planning. All free. No gate.
The guide below was created by Special Needs Navigator. The external links take you to third-party tools and websites — I don't control them, their content, or their availability. I've vetted each one and believe they're genuinely useful, but always verify information with the relevant agency or a qualified professional before making decisions.
How to Get the Most Out of Sage: 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.
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 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.