This chapter reviews the operational experience of the Special Needs Trust Company Ltd (SNTC), Singapore’s first not-for-profit special needs trust organisation. It first introduces SNTC’s present situation, including its background, the number of trust accounts, its organisational structure and the funding arrangements. It then analyses the challenges of SNTC trust in the past 10 years, including the low take-up rate and the operational difficulties at different stages, as well as SNTC’s efforts to solve them. With the prior experience, SNTC is planning to fill the service gap in the community today concerning Singaporean elderly. However, the analysis reveals that certain work processes have to be in place and improvements are necessary to support this new service.

This chapter evaluates the operation of Midwest Special Needs Trust (MSNT), an organisation created to establish and administer special needs trusts. A special needs trust is used as a fiduciary tool to serve persons with disabilities so that their assets do not affect the eligibility of means-tested social benefits. It starts with an account of the history of MSNT, and then examines the specific definitions and requirements of MSNT trust accounts, the roles and responsibilities of the Trustee and co-trustees, and the merits of MSNT. This chapter also considers important aspects of the administration of MSNT, such as the establishment and termination of trust accounts, staffing, fees and expenses, data management, and investment policy. Real-life cases are discussed throughout to show how MSNT helps to improve the quality of life of the disabled. This chapter concludes with thoughts on the future development of special needs trusts, including MSNT service enhancements and other financial tools, to assist the population with disabilities.