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[ChSNC] Chartered Special Needs Consultant Practice Exam, Exams of Technology

Technology

The Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC) Practice Exam is designed for professionals who provide financial and planning services to families with special needs children or adults. The exam covers topics such as government benefits, special needs trusts, guardianship, education planning, and long-term care considerations. Candidates will demonstrate their ability to create tailored financial plans that help families provide for the financial and medical needs of loved ones with special needs, while also addressing issues related to guardianship and asset preservation. This certification is ideal for financial planners, attorneys, and advisors who work with families navigating special needs issues.

Typology: Exams

2024/2025

Available from 05/10/2025

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[ChSNC] Chartered Special Needs Consultant Practice Exam

Question 1:

Which of the following best describes a developmental disability? a) A disability that is acquired

after the age of 18.

b) A disability that affects only physical functioning.

c) A disability that manifests during childhood and limits major life activities.

d) A temporary condition caused by an injury.

Answer: c) A disability that manifests during childhood and limits major life activities.

Explanation: Developmental disabilities are typically identified before the age of 22 and can

affect cognitive, physical, and behavioral functioning.

Question 2:

What is one of the primary financial challenges faced by families of children with disabilities? a)

High-cost medical treatments and therapies.

b) Increased income due to government subsidies.

c) Lower educational expenses.

d) Reduced caregiving responsibilities.

Answer: a) High-cost medical treatments and therapies.

Explanation: Families often face significant financial burdens due to medical care, therapies,

and support services that are necessary for children with disabilities.

Question 3:

Which stakeholder is most likely to assist in creating a financial plan for an individual with

disabilities? a) Family members only.

b) A special needs financial planner or consultant.

c) Government agencies exclusively.

d) School teachers.

Answer: b) A special needs financial planner or consultant.

Explanation: Special needs financial planners are trained to help families develop

comprehensive financial strategies for individuals with disabilities, addressing their unique

needs.

Partial preview of the text

Download [ChSNC] Chartered Special Needs Consultant Practice Exam and more Exams Technology in PDF only on Docsity!

Question 1: Which of the following best describes a developmental disability? a) A disability that is acquired after the age of 18. b) A disability that affects only physical functioning. c) A disability that manifests during childhood and limits major life activities. d) A temporary condition caused by an injury. Answer: c) A disability that manifests during childhood and limits major life activities. Explanation: Developmental disabilities are typically identified before the age of 22 and can affect cognitive, physical, and behavioral functioning. Question 2: What is one of the primary financial challenges faced by families of children with disabilities? a) High-cost medical treatments and therapies. b) Increased income due to government subsidies. c) Lower educational expenses. d) Reduced caregiving responsibilities. Answer: a) High-cost medical treatments and therapies. Explanation: Families often face significant financial burdens due to medical care, therapies, and support services that are necessary for children with disabilities. Question 3: Which stakeholder is most likely to assist in creating a financial plan for an individual with disabilities? a) Family members only. b) A special needs financial planner or consultant. c) Government agencies exclusively. d) School teachers. Answer: b) A special needs financial planner or consultant. Explanation: Special needs financial planners are trained to help families develop comprehensive financial strategies for individuals with disabilities, addressing their unique needs.

2. Government Benefits and Programs

Question 4: Which of the following programs provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability? a) Medicaid b) Supplemental Security Income (SSI) c) Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) d) Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Answer: d) Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Explanation: SSDI provides financial assistance to individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system but are unable to work due to a disability. Question 5: What is one factor that may disqualify an individual from receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? a) They do not have sufficient work history. b) They have a high level of assets or income. c) They are under the age of 18. d) They are employed full-time. Answer: b) They have a high level of assets or income. Explanation: SSI is a need-based program, and individuals with assets or income above a certain threshold may not be eligible. Question 6: Which of the following is true about the application process for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)? a) SSDI eligibility is based solely on the applicant’s disability. b) Applicants must submit their application online; phone applications are not accepted. c) SSDI eligibility depends on the individual’s work history and the number of credits they’ve earned. d) SSDI benefits are automatically granted once the disability is diagnosed. Answer: c) SSDI eligibility depends on the individual’s work history and the number of credits they’ve earned. Explanation: SSDI eligibility is based on the individual’s work history and the number of work credits earned through prior employment.

Explanation: State-specific programs and waivers are designed to provide additional support to individuals with disabilities who may need more care than what is covered by federal programs. Question 10: Which of the following is a key factor that determines Medicaid eligibility for individuals with disabilities? a) Age of the applicant. b) The applicant's work history. c) The applicant’s income and resources. d) Whether the applicant is a U.S. citizen. Answer: c) The applicant’s income and resources. Explanation: Medicaid eligibility for individuals with disabilities is primarily determined by income and asset limits, as well as other factors like age and disability status.

PART A: FOUNDATIONS OF DISABILITY AND

SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING

Set 1 (Questions 1–10)

Which of the following categories of disabilities typically includes conditions such as cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome? a) Physical disabilities b) Developmental disabilities c) Psychiatric disabilities d) Sensory disabilities Answer: b) Developmental disabilities Explanation: Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions that begin during the developmental period and can impact physical, learning, language, or behavior areas.
In the context of special needs planning, which of the following best defines "person- centered planning"? a) A plan developed entirely by a professional without input from the individual b) A planning approach that focuses on the individual’s strengths, preferences, and goals c) A plan that only considers medical needs d) A generic plan applied to everyone with a disability Answer: b) A planning approach that focuses on the individual’s strengths, preferences, and goals

Explanation: Person-centered planning places the individual at the core, ensuring their personal ambitions and desires are prioritized.

Which professional is typically consulted to discuss educational interventions for a child with disabilities? a) Certified Public Accountant (CPA) b) Financial planner c) Special education teacher or educational consultant d) Insurance underwriter Answer: c) Special education teacher or educational consultant Explanation: A special education professional or educational consultant helps tailor learning approaches and resources for a child with disabilities.
Which of the following statements is most accurate regarding the financial challenges families face when raising a child with special needs? a) Families rarely face out-of-pocket medical expenses. b) Budgeting for therapy and assistive technology can significantly increase costs. c) Education for special needs children is fully covered by public programs. d) Most families with special needs children have fewer living expenses. Answer: b) Budgeting for therapy and assistive technology can significantly increase costs. Explanation: Families often face substantial costs for therapies, assistive technology, educational modifications, and related medical care.
Which type of insurance is commonly recommended to protect the financial future of a caregiver of a child with special needs? a) Standard health insurance only b) Auto insurance c) Life insurance (with the child named as beneficiary through a trust) d) Renter’s insurance Answer: c) Life insurance (with the child named as beneficiary through a trust) Explanation: Life insurance can provide funds for a child’s care if a primary caregiver passes away. Using a special needs trust as the beneficiary is crucial to protect benefit eligibility.
When planning for the future of an individual with disabilities, which of the following tools is most likely to address both financial and care coordination needs? a) ABLE account b) Retirement plan rollover c) Special needs trust d) Traditional IRA

Explanation: A fiduciary must uphold the highest standard of care and loyalty when managing someone else’s finances or affairs.

Set 2 (Questions 11–20)

Which of the following best explains why individuals with intellectual disabilities may require additional financial planning support? a) They are automatically denied government benefits. b) They may need assistance managing finances and benefit eligibility. c) They cannot obtain life insurance. d) They have no legal rights. Answer: b) They may need assistance managing finances and benefit eligibility. Explanation: Individuals with intellectual disabilities often benefit from structured oversight and guidance to maintain financial well-being and eligibility for programs.
Why might a parent of a child with special needs wish to establish guardianship once the child reaches the age of majority? a) To revoke the child’s right to education b) To ensure the parent can continue to make decisions on behalf of the child who lacks capacity c) To prevent access to any public benefits d) To bypass all medical advice Answer: b) To ensure the parent can continue to make decisions on behalf of the child who lacks capacity Explanation: Guardianship can be essential if the individual cannot make informed decisions independently.
Which of the following is a common component of a comprehensive special needs plan? a) A plan solely focused on maximizing inheritance taxes b) A document that disregards the individual’s personal interests c) An educational plan, financial plan, legal documents, and a transition plan for adulthood d) A simple bank account for all assets in the beneficiary’s name Answer: c) An educational plan, financial plan, legal documents, and a transition plan for adulthood Explanation: A well-rounded plan should address the individual’s educational, financial, and legal needs and outline future transitions.

What is an ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) account primarily designed to do? a) Allow individuals with disabilities to save money without impacting means-tested benefits b) Provide unlimited asset growth for any purpose c) Act as a substitute for all government benefits d) Bypass IRS regulations for tax filing Answer: a) Allow individuals with disabilities to save money without impacting means- tested benefits Explanation: ABLE accounts let individuals with qualifying disabilities save and invest money while maintaining eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other needs-based programs (with certain contribution and balance limits).
Which of the following describes “self-determination” in the context of special needs planning? a) The power for service providers to make decisions on behalf of the individual b) The principle that individuals with disabilities have the right to make choices and control their own lives to the maximum extent possible c) A legally binding contract that eliminates personal choice d) A short-term educational policy Answer: b) The principle that individuals with disabilities have the right to make choices and control their own lives to the maximum extent possible Explanation: Self-determination emphasizes autonomy and respect for the individual’s preferences and goals.
When considering care management for an adult with a severe disability, which factor is typically the most crucial? a) Access to a single physician without a broader support system b) Structured routine and a coordinated team of caregivers and professionals c) Minimal social services d) Neglecting the individual’s preferences Answer: b) Structured routine and a coordinated team of caregivers and professionals Explanation: Adults with severe disabilities often need a consistent schedule, clear communication, and collaboration among healthcare providers, social workers, and family members.
Which document usually outlines educational goals and services for a student with disabilities in public schools in the United States? a) Individualized Education Program (IEP) b) Living Will c) Letter of Competency d) Guardianship Decree

Which of the following conditions might be classified primarily as a psychiatric disability? a) Schizophrenia b) Cerebral palsy c) Blindness d) Muscular dystrophy Answer: a) Schizophrenia Explanation: Schizophrenia is a mental health condition that significantly affects a person’s thinking, emotions, and behavior.
Why might special needs planning involve multiple revisions over time? a) Once set, a plan never changes b) Government benefits and personal circumstances remain static c) As the individual’s needs, laws, and financial situations evolve, plans must be updated d) It is illegal to revise a plan Answer: c) As the individual’s needs, laws, and financial situations evolve, plans must be updated Explanation: Life changes such as alterations in laws, family structure, or the individual’s condition can necessitate adjustments to the plan.
Which term refers to the concept that people with disabilities should live and work in the community whenever possible? a) Institutionalization b) Inclusion and community integration c) Medical seclusion d) Resource deprivation Answer: b) Inclusion and community integration Explanation: Inclusion and integration emphasize that individuals with disabilities should have opportunities to live, work, and participate in their communities.
In financial planning for individuals with special needs, which professional might assist specifically with navigating governmental regulations and benefits? a) Occupational therapist b) Vocational rehabilitation counselor c) Benefits or case manager d) Speech-language pathologist Answer: c) Benefits or case manager Explanation: A benefits or case manager helps families understand and access public benefits, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations.
What is the main purpose of a “Supplemental Needs Trust” (a type of special needs trust)?

a) To pay for basic living expenses covered by SSI b) To shelter assets to supplement care without jeopardizing means-tested benefits c) To eliminate the need for guardianship d) To replace all governmental benefits Answer: b) To shelter assets to supplement care without jeopardizing means-tested benefits Explanation: These trusts provide funds for additional care and quality-of-life needs without disqualifying the beneficiary from programs like Medicaid or SSI.

Which of the following is a potential consequence of naming a child with disabilities as a direct beneficiary on a life insurance policy? a) Automatic qualification for Medicaid b) Guaranteed increase in SSI benefits c) Possible disqualification from means-tested benefits if the payout exceeds asset limits d) Full protection of assets in all cases Answer: c) Possible disqualification from means-tested benefits if the payout exceeds asset limits Explanation: Large sums received directly can push the beneficiary’s assets above thresholds for SSI or Medicaid, risking loss of benefits.
Which of the following statements about respite care is accurate? a) It is a long-term residential placement program b) It provides short-term relief for primary caregivers c) It permanently replaces parental caregiving d) It is not covered by any state programs Answer: b) It provides short-term relief for primary caregivers Explanation: Respite care offers caregivers temporary relief, helping them rest or attend to other responsibilities.
In special needs planning, what is the best way to ensure the individual’s quality of life if the primary caregiver becomes incapacitated? a) Rely on an informal verbal agreement with a family friend b) Create a contingency plan, including legal documents and naming successor caregivers/trustees c) Avoid naming any guardian or trustee until an emergency arises d) Transfer all assets to the individual immediately Answer: b) Create a contingency plan, including legal documents and naming successor caregivers/trustees Explanation: Having a formal, legally recognized plan with designated roles helps ensure continuity of care.

Answer: b) The trustee must manage distributions carefully to avoid violating SSI/Medicaid rules Explanation: Proper trust administration is vital to ensure benefits are not jeopardized by improperly structured distributions.

What is a major financial planning concern when a child with disabilities transitions to adulthood? a) Ceasing all public benefits b) Guardianship or power of attorney, housing, employment supports, and access to adult services c) Automatic enrollment in private schools d) Forced institutionalization Answer: b) Guardianship or power of attorney, housing, employment supports, and access to adult services Explanation: Transition involves determining legal decision-making, independent living arrangements, vocational assistance, and ongoing benefit eligibility.
Which statement about care coordination for individuals with severe disabilities is true? a) Care coordination is optional and rarely beneficial b) Coordination between healthcare, social services, and educational/vocational services can improve outcomes c) Most families can easily manage complex care independently without professional guidance d) There is no legal framework for coordinating care Answer: b) Coordination between healthcare, social services, and educational/vocational services can improve outcomes Explanation: Holistic, coordinated approaches ensure all aspects of the individual’s life are managed consistently.
Why might an individual with disabilities consider a representative payee for Social Security benefits? a) To avoid receiving any money directly b) If they cannot afford taxes c) If they need assistance with managing finances to ensure bills and essential needs are met d) To bypass eligibility requirements Answer: c) If they need assistance with managing finances to ensure bills and essential needs are met Explanation: A representative payee is responsible for using the beneficiary’s Social Security funds to cover their living expenses properly.

Which of the following is a component of emotional or psychological planning for families of individuals with special needs? a) Denying the existence of a disability b) Underestimating future care needs c) Seeking counseling or support groups to address stress, grief, and long-term caregiving challenges d) Refusing all external help Answer: c) Seeking counseling or support groups to address stress, grief, and long-term caregiving challenges Explanation: Emotional support is crucial for caregivers, who often face significant stress and burnout.
Which professional might be best suited to evaluate housing options for an adult with a disability who wants semi-independent living? a) Real estate attorney b) Vocational rehabilitation specialist c) Housing coordinator or social worker experienced in disability services d) School principal Answer: c) Housing coordinator or social worker experienced in disability services Explanation: These professionals are knowledgeable about supported living programs, group homes, and community-based housing alternatives.
What is one benefit of creating a life care plan for an individual with disabilities? a) It eliminates the need for any legal documentation b) It estimates the short- and long-term costs of care, helping families prepare financially c) It guarantees unlimited government funding d) It restricts the family from accessing outside resources Answer: b) It estimates the short- and long-term costs of care, helping families prepare financially Explanation: A life care plan projects care costs over the individual’s lifetime and integrates them into a comprehensive financial strategy.
Which type of trust is often established using the beneficiary’s own assets (e.g., from an inheritance or lawsuit settlement)? a) Third-party special needs trust b) Pooled trust c) First-party special needs trust (d4A trust) d) Irrevocable burial trust Answer: c) First-party special needs trust (d4A trust) Explanation: A first-party or self-settled trust is funded with the beneficiary’s own assets and can preserve eligibility for Medicaid and SSI.

c) Durable power of attorney d) Discretionary trust Answer: b) Guardianship or conservatorship Explanation: Under guardianship or conservatorship, the court grants authority to a guardian or conservator to make decisions on behalf of the individual.

What is a key reason to update estate planning documents when a child is diagnosed with a long-term disability? a) To ensure direct inheritance of all assets b) To maximize asset holdings in the child’s name c) To integrate a special needs trust or similar arrangement, preserving eligibility for public benefits d) To eliminate guardianship provisions Answer: c) To integrate a special needs trust or similar arrangement, preserving eligibility for public benefits Explanation: Incorporating a special needs trust allows families to plan inheritances without jeopardizing government assistance.
What is one potential drawback of informal care agreements? a) They are legally binding contracts b) They have no effect on eligibility for benefits c) They may lead to misunderstandings and lack legal enforceability, putting the individual’s care at risk d) They are recognized nationwide Answer: c) They may lead to misunderstandings and lack legal enforceability, putting the individual’s care at risk Explanation: Formalizing care agreements helps avoid disputes and ensures all parties understand their roles.
When planning for a child with autism who may never be fully independent, what should parents consider? a) Only short-term accommodations b) A guardianship or supported decision-making arrangement once the child reaches age 18 c) Canceling all life insurance policies d) Allocating all resources directly to the child’s name Answer: b) A guardianship or supported decision-making arrangement once the child reaches age 18 Explanation: If the child cannot make informed decisions, legal tools like guardianship or supported decision-making can provide necessary oversight.

Which of the following is an example of a "reasonable accommodation" in the workplace for an individual with disabilities? a) Providing no additional support despite limitations b) Offering a wheelchair ramp or modified work schedule c) Immediately terminating employees who request accommodations d) Withholding promotions for employees with disabilities Answer: b) Offering a wheelchair ramp or modified work schedule Explanation: Under the ADA, employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations unless it causes undue hardship.
How might a vocational rehabilitation counselor assist an individual with a disability? a) By managing their estate planning documents b) By helping them explore career options, job training, and placement suitable to their abilities c) By providing direct medical care d) By overseeing the distribution of trust funds Answer: b) By helping them explore career options, job training, and placement suitable to their abilities Explanation: Vocational rehabilitation professionals specialize in improving employability and matching individuals to suitable jobs.
Which is a valid reason to pursue supported decision-making over full guardianship? a) The individual is completely incapable of making decisions b) It allows the person with disabilities to retain more independence while receiving help with complex decisions c) It automatically disqualifies them from all benefits d) It removes all personal choice from the individual Answer: b) It allows the person with disabilities to retain more independence while receiving help with complex decisions Explanation: Supported decision-making preserves autonomy and empowers individuals, with support from trusted advisors when needed.
Which step is most critical when parents anticipate transferring caregiving responsibilities to another family member? a) Refraining from putting any formal instructions in writing b) Documenting routines, medical needs, and preferences in a Letter of Intent or similar guide c) Relying solely on verbal agreements d) Assigning roles without communicating with the designated caregiver

What is the relationship between SSDI and Medicare eligibility for individuals with disabilities under 65? a) SSDI recipients typically become eligible for Medicare after 24 months of receiving benefits b) Medicare coverage is immediate upon SSDI approval c) SSDI has no connection to Medicare d) Only SSI recipients qualify for Medicare Answer: a) SSDI recipients typically become eligible for Medicare after 24 months of receiving benefits Explanation: There is a standard 2-year waiting period for Medicare coverage to begin after SSDI entitlement.
Which part of Medicare typically covers hospital stays? a) Part A b) Part B c) Part C d) Part D Answer: a) Part A Explanation: Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health services.
Which statement accurately describes Medicaid? a) A federal program with the same rules in every state b) A means-tested program jointly funded by federal and state governments that can vary from state to state c) A universal healthcare program for all U.S. citizens d) A completely privately funded insurance system Answer: b) A means-tested program jointly funded by federal and state governments that can vary from state to state Explanation: Medicaid’s eligibility and services can differ based on each state’s regulations and waivers.
What is the “Spend Down” process in the context of Medicaid? a) A method to increase a beneficiary’s income b) A requirement to reduce one’s assets or income to qualify for Medicaid c) A penalty imposed for working d) A simple budgeting exercise Answer: b) A requirement to reduce one’s assets or income to qualify for Medicaid Explanation: Some states allow individuals to qualify for Medicaid by spending excess income or resources on medical expenses until they meet eligibility thresholds.

What is a Medicaid waiver? a) A document that exempts individuals from all program requirements b) A program that allows states to provide additional services not typically covered by Medicaid to targeted groups, such as individuals with disabilities c) A benefit only available to individuals over 65 d) A plan that forgives taxes for people with disabilities Answer: b) A program that allows states to provide additional services not typically covered by Medicaid to targeted groups, such as individuals with disabilities Explanation: Waivers enable states to tailor Medicaid programs to meet specific needs, like home- and community-based services.
Which statement is true regarding the impact of employment on SSI benefits for individuals with disabilities? a) Any earned income immediately stops SSI benefits b) SSI has work incentives that allow recipients to earn some income without losing benefits entirely c) Working part-time can never be combined with SSI d) SSI automatically becomes SSDI when you start working Answer: b) SSI has work incentives that allow recipients to earn some income without losing benefits entirely Explanation: Programs like the Ticket to Work and other work incentives enable beneficiaries to work while still receiving partial SSI benefits.
For an individual transitioning from school to adult services, which government benefit is commonly explored? a) Veterans Affairs compensation b) Supplemental Security Income (SSI) c) Pell Grant d) Child-only TANF Answer: b) Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Explanation: Upon reaching 18, an individual may apply for SSI based on their disability and financial situation, especially if they lack substantial work history.

Set 7 (Questions 61–70)

Which benefit might be reduced if an SSI beneficiary’s countable income exceeds certain thresholds? a) SSDI b) SSI monthly payment