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How To Enroll

Our Trust
Services

Three pooled trust programs designed for different life situations.

Our Pooled Trust Programs

Our Trust Services

Three pooled trust options to help you remain eligible for essential benefits while managing income or supporting someone you care about.

First-Party Trust

Under Age 65

For individuals with disabilities under the age of 65.

This trust is designed for individuals under age 65 whose income exceeds Medicaid and SSI limits but who still require support paying for essential living expenses.

  • Individuals living with a disability
  • People under age 65 whose income exceeds Medicaid and SSI limits
  • People who need help managing income safely and consistently
  • Housing and utilities
  • Phone and internet
  • Transportation and essential errands
  • Personal care
  • Approved medical and living expenses
  • Funded with the individual’s own income
  • Designed to protect Medicaid and SSI eligibility
  • Payments are made directly to vendors (no cash disbursements)
First-Party Trust​

Age 65 and Over

For seniors who need to keep Medicaid and SSI while covering essential living expenses.

This trust supports individuals age 65 and older who want to remain Medicaid-eligible while safely paying for daily living needs.

  • Individuals age 65 or older
  • Seniors whose income exceeds Medicaid and SSI limits
  • Caregivers assisting with financial management for a loved one
  • Rent or mortgage
  • Utilities
  • Phone and internet
  • Personal care and daily support
  • Other approved living expenses
  • Funded with the individual’s own income
  • Must follow Medicaid rules specific to individuals age 65 and over
  • No cash payments — all payments go directly to vendors
THIRD-PARTY TRUST

Friends & Family

For families who want to support a loved one with a disability - without affecting benefits.

This trust is funded by someone other than the beneficiary and is designed to enhance quality of life while protecting Medicaid and SSI eligibility.

  • Parents, grandparents, siblings, legal guardians, and other loved ones supporting a person with a disability who relies on Medicaid and SSI
  • Families who want to provide financial support without affecting essential benefits
  • Those planning long-term financial stability and future care for a loved one with disabilities
  • Housing support
  • Transportation
  • Personal items and services
  • Recreation and enrichment
  • Quality-of-life needs
  • Other supplemental expenses
  • Funded by someone other than the beneficiary
  • No Medicaid payback requirement
  • Medicaid and SSI benefits are protected when the trust is used correctly

How We Support You

Our role goes beyond holding funds.

We provide ongoing trust administration and support to ensure everything is handled safely, correctly, and in full compliance with Medicaid requirements.

Our services include:

✔ Reviewing and processing payments to approved vendors

✔ Ensuring all disbursements meet Medicaid requirements

✔ Maintaining detailed records and providing regular statements

✔ Offering guidance and ongoing support to beneficiaries and caregivers

Get Started Here

How Your Funds
Are Managed

Your funds are pooled for investment purposes while remaining individually tracked for your account. All payments are reviewed for compliance and made directly to approved vendors – never as cash to the beneficiary. 

This structure helps protect benefits while ensuring transparency, accountability, and peace of mind.

Support You Can
Count On

Managing benefits and finances can feel overwhelming. That’s why our team is here to guide you with patience, clarity, and care – explaining each step the way we would for our own families.

You’ll always work with real people who are ready to answer questions and help you move forward with confidence.

Pooled trust explained in simple terms.

We know these topics can feel overwhelming at first. That’s why we break everything down in a calm, clear, and caring way - just like we would for our own families.
Enroll Today

Answer a few simple questions:
 – Is your income slightly above Medicaid limits?
 – Do you still need help paying for daily or personal expenses?
 – Are you supporting someone who needs help managing their income?

If you're unsure, our specialists can guide you in a quick, friendly call.

Most members use their pooled trust for everyday expenses like rent, utilities, transportation, phone/internet, personal care, and medical needs. We’ll walk you through what’s eligible.

No. A properly managed pooled trust is designed to protect your Medicaid eligibility. Our team ensures everything is set up correctly.

Getting started is quicker than most people expect. On average, it takes our members 14-21 days to set up an account. Once your initial documents and deposit are submitted, we guide you through each step until your trust is active.

We’re here to help at any stage - with patience, clarity, and compassion. There’s no pressure and no confusing language. You can reach us via email info@wnypooledtrust.org, phone 1-866-362-5081, or submit a contact us form.

Let’s plan your peace of mind.

Every journey begins with one step. Reach out today, and let’s build a trust that supports your independence and dignity.

Learn How To Enroll