“Not unlike Justin (pictured above), who recently passed away because of lifelong health issues, so many people with disabilities whom I have the privilege of knowing are amongst the most engaging, vibrant and positive people one would ever want to meet. With such endearing qualities, they are truly a joy to be around.”
Certified Financial Planner Dan Matwey said what he experienced isn’t uncommon. Many people have had the joy of knowing an individual with a disability who is a source of inspiration.
But what isn’t so positive is that in light of whatever affliction may exist, people with special needs are at a tremendous disadvantage financially, he said.
“As a certified financial planner, my goal is to address that inequity.”
Matwey’s passion was born from watching his brother and sister courageously deal with schizophrenia over the years.
“What I’ve learned from that experience and what I inevitably find in my business is that disability can affect the entire family. Understanding the challenges that exist, I strive to put strategies in place to secure the future for not only the disabled child but their entire family.”
“There’s enough emotional turbulence as it is. Financial uncertainty need not be part of it.”
Special needs financial planning seminar
On Thursday, Nov. 17, Matwey is holding a special needs financial planning seminar for families who have a child living with a disability.
The discussion will cover various topics, including the Disability Tax Credit and Registered Disability Savings Plan, protection of the Ontario Disability Support Program and estate planning strategies and Henson Trusts.
“We’ll discuss some of the things I’ve seen that have made a difference in the lives of families no different than my own and perhaps yours or others you know,” Matwey said.
He said we’re fortunate to live in a country and society that recognizes the need for such a plan and is willing to commit tremendous resources to implement it.
“However, my experience meeting families is that there’s so much more than the generous grants and bonds attached to an RDSP—much of which gets overlooked. In terms of the Disability Tax Credit, which is mandatory to qualify for an RDSP, there’s a lot of confusion about who might be eligible.”
“There’s uncertainty about the best way to apply and even doubt about the tangible benefit of a tax credit which seemingly offers little benefit if there are no taxes (ODSP income is not taxable) to be reduced. That’s a misconception.”
And what about planning for after the parents are gone? He said this is perhaps the most neglected part of the entire process.
Estate planning is an integral part of the process and the reason behind inviting Frank Valeriote, a well-known lawyer (and former MP) from Guelph, who is knowledgeable on the topic and will discuss and answer questions about Henson Trusts.
“This will provide vital information, which you won’t want to miss as a parent.”
The event starts at 7 p.m. at the Evergreen Center at 683 Woolwich St in Guelph.
Seating is limited for the special needs financial planning seminar.
To reserve your complimentary seat, or even if you can’t attend but have questions on any of these topics, please call Dan Matwey at 226 343-1104 or email at [email protected].
