#USA #Tallahassee #ABLE United #Disability Savings #Age Adjustment

ABLE United Welcomes Newly Eligible Floridians

ABLE United, Florida's official program for achieving financial independence among people with disabilities, is celebrating a significant legislative update. The ABLE Age Adjustment Act, which takes effect on January 1, 2026, expands eligibility for ABLE accounts, opening doors for many Floridians who previously did not qualify.

A New Era for Financial Independence

With this change, the age limit for when a disability can begin and still qualify for an ABLE account has been raised from 26 to 46. This means that an estimated 6 million additional Americans, including over a million veterans, can now take advantage of these tax-advantaged savings accounts while maintaining eligibility for vital public benefits, such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

This shift aims to support individuals whose disabling conditions, like multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injuries, or PTSD, often develop later in life. In Florida alone, more than 427,000 individuals with disabilities now qualify for ABLE accounts, marking a pivotal moment in the state's commitment to empowering its citizens.

Encouraging Savings with Incentives

To further promote this program, ABLE United has announced a $50 incentive for new ABLE accounts opened between January 5 and April 30, 2026. This initiative highlights the organization's dedication to enhancing the financial well-being of Floridians with disabilities, encouraging them to save effectively and securely.

John Finch, the Director of ABLE United, emphasized Florida's leadership role in supporting financial independence for individuals with disabilities: “With the Age Adjustment Act, we're expanding that opportunity to thousands more Floridians—veterans, adults with later-onset conditions, and families who've long been excluded. This is more than policy—it's progress.”

Leveraging Tax Benefits for a Better Future

Since the inception of ABLE accounts in 2016, over 18,000 Floridians have collectively saved around $140 million for their daily living needs and future expenses. ABLE accounts allow for savings that protect beneficiaries' public benefits while enabling them to grow their finances tax-free.

The accounts are designed for a range of expenses, including:

• - Assistive technology
• - Education
• - Housing
• - Transportation
• - Healthcare

Individuals can save up to $20,000 annually in an ABLE account, a powerful tool for financial security and dignity.

Support from Legal Experts

Travis Finchum, a Board Certified Elder Law Attorney and the Chair of the ABLE United Board of Directors, remarked on the importance of this change for individuals who developed disabilities after age 26, who have been historically excluded from ABLE accounts. He stated, “Now they’ll finally have access to a tool that protects their benefits while allowing them to save for the future. It’s a win for dignity, autonomy, and financial security.”

How to Get Involved

Individuals interested in learning more about this program, the eligibility changes, and how to open an ABLE account are encouraged to visit www.ableunited.com. Enrollment is free, comes with no monthly fees, and funds can grow tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses.

About ABLE United

Founded in July 2015, ABLE United operates as a non-profit organization supporting the financial needs of individuals with disabilities. Managed by the Florida Prepaid College Board, the program's mission focuses on assisting people with disabilities in building financial health and independence.

This legislative change isn't just about eligibility; it's about the next step towards greater financial empowerment for those living with disabilities. As such, the ABLE Age Adjustment Act represents a significant victory for the community, land marking a brighter future for Florida's residents with disabilities.