Celebrating a Decade of Empowering Floridians with Disabilities Through ABLE United

ABLE United: A Decade of Empowerment for Floridians with Disabilities

On July 15, 2026, ABLE United, Florida’s official ABLE program, proudly celebrates its 10th anniversary, reflecting on a decade filled with achievements and milestones. The program was designed to empower Floridians with disabilities, allowing them to save and invest for their futures without jeopardizing essential public benefits.

Since its inception in July 2016, more than 20,000 individuals in Florida have opened ABLE United accounts, collectively amassing over $170 million in savings. This incredible achievement highlights the program’s importance in fostering financial independence among people with disabilities and their families across the state.

ABLE accounts offer a unique opportunity for individuals with disabilities to benefit from tax-advantaged savings and investment. These accounts enable them to save while retaining eligibility for critical public benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. For many Floridians, ABLE accounts represent a smart and viable way to plan for future expenses without the threat of losing essential support.

John Finch, Director of ABLE United, remarked, "When we launched ABLE United on July 1, 2016, our aim was clear: to provide Floridians with disabilities a means to save for the future without endangering their benefits." The success of the program is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of financial planning and independence for those who often face disproportionate challenges in life.

The 10-year anniversary also coincides with the recent implementation of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act, which became effective on January 1, 2026. This federal legislation raised the age of disability onset from 26 to 46, making approximately 427,000 more Floridians—especially veterans and those with later-onset disabilities—eligible to open an ABLE account. This change marks a significant expansion of access to the program as it enters its second decade.

Jenn Sikora, Vice Chair of the ABLE United Board of Directors and a founding member of the federal ABLE Act, expressed her pride in the program's growth. She reflected on her own son Sean, who was the first account holder, and noted, "Seeing ABLE United evolve from that moment to now, with over $170 million saved, embodies the promise that we envisioned for people with disabilities. This milestone belongs to every account holder who has chosen to invest in their future."

An ABLE United account allows individuals with severe disabilities to save up to $20,000 each year while preserving their eligibility for essential public benefits. Contributions from family and friends can also be added to maximize savings potential. Funds accumulated in these accounts can be utilized for various expenses, including necessary assistive technology, educational endeavors, healthcare, housing costs, and transportation.

The enrollment process is straightforward and free of charge, with no monthly fees implemented. The funds grow tax-free, provided that withdrawals are made for Qualified Disability Expenses. This design not only encourages savings but also alleviates the financial burden on families who often have to navigate added costs related to disabilities.

For Floridians interested in opening an ABLE account or verifying their eligibility, the process can be completed quickly at ABLEUnited.com.

Overview of ABLE United

In July 2015, Florida established Florida ABLE, Inc., known as ABLE United, as a not-for-profit organization aimed at assisting individuals with disabilities in saving funds for their health, independence, and quality of life. The program operates under the umbrella of the Florida Prepaid College Board, which has been managing significant investments in Florida's educational savings plans since its establishment in 1987. The mission of ABLE United remains steadfast: to encourage savings among Floridians with disabilities and enhance their financial well-being. For more details about Florida's ABLE program, visit ABLEUnited.com.