What Information Belongs in a Letter of Intent? A Complete Checklist
A Letter of Intent is one of the most valuable planning tools a family can create for a loved one with a disability. While legal documents help protect assets and establish authority, a Letter of Intent captures something equally important: the day-to-day knowledge, routines, preferences, and personal details that make your loved one who they are.
If you were suddenly unable to provide support, would someone else know how to step in confidently? A well-written Letter of Intent helps ensure they can.
What Is a Letter of Intent?
A Letter of Intent is a non-legal document that provides guidance to future caregivers, trustees, family members, and support professionals. It serves as a roadmap for your loved one’s care, routines, relationships, and future goals.
Think of it as an instruction manual written by the people who know and love them best.
While no two Letters of Intent are exactly alike, there are several key areas every family should consider including.
Personal Information
Start with the basics.
Include your loved one’s full name, preferred name or nickname, date of birth, address, and important identifying information. You may also want to include emergency contacts and family members who play a significant role in their life.
This section provides future caregivers with a quick reference point and helps establish important connections.
Daily Routines
One of the most valuable parts of a Letter of Intent is documenting everyday routines.
Consider including:
- Morning and bedtime routines
- Preferred meal times and food preferences
- Personal hygiene routines
- Daily schedules
- Transportation arrangements
- Activities and hobbies
- Favorite places and community programs
Small details can make a big difference when helping someone feel comfortable and secure during a transition.
Communication Preferences
Every individual communicates differently.
Explain how your loved one best communicates and understands information. Include details about:
- Preferred communication methods
- Assistive technology or communication devices
- Speech patterns or communication challenges
- Ways they express discomfort, frustration, or happiness
- Strategies that help them understand new information
The better future caregivers understand communication needs, the better they can support independence and self-advocacy.
Medical Information
Provide an overview of current health needs and important medical information.
Include:
- Diagnoses and medical conditions
- Medications and dosage schedules
- Allergies
- Primary care physicians and specialists
- Insurance information
- Therapists and treatment providers
- Emergency medical instructions
This information can be critical during emergencies and ongoing care.
Education, Employment, and Programs
Document any educational, vocational, or community-based services your loved one receives.
This may include:
- School information
- IEP or 504 Plan details
- Postsecondary education programs
- Employment supports
- Vocational rehabilitation services
- Day programs
- Community organizations and activities
Providing this information helps maintain continuity and avoid unnecessary disruptions.
Behavioral, Emotional, and Sensory Supports
Future caregivers benefit greatly from understanding what helps your loved one feel successful and supported.
Describe:
- Known triggers or stressors
- Calming techniques
- Behavioral support strategies
- Sensory sensitivities
- Coping mechanisms
- Signs of anxiety or distress
These insights can prevent misunderstandings and create a smoother transition.
Relationships and Social Connections
People thrive when important relationships remain intact.
Include information about:
- Family members
- Friends
- Neighbors
- Faith communities
- Support groups
- Mentors and advocates
Documenting these connections helps preserve a sense of belonging and continuity.
Government Benefits and Financial Information
Provide an overview of benefits and financial resources that support your loved one.
This may include:
- SSI
- SSDI
- Medicaid
- Housing assistance
- ABLE Accounts
- Special Needs Trusts
- Representative payee information
Future caregivers and trustees need to understand these resources to help protect eligibility and financial stability.
Final Thoughts
A Letter of Intent may be one of the most important documents you ever create for your loved one. It preserves knowledge, protects continuity of care, and gives future caregivers the guidance they need to provide informed, compassionate support.
Most importantly, it helps ensure your loved one’s routines, preferences, relationships, and goals remain at the center of every decision, even when you’re no longer there to explain them yourself.
At Special Needs Trusts Online, our Letter of Intent tool helps families create this essential document through a simple, guided process written in plain English.
Reach out to us to get started today.
