ABLE Accounts in 2026: Savings for People With Disabilities
- ABLE accounts let eligible people with disabilities save without losing benefits.
- Savings in an ABLE account generally do not count against SSI or Medicaid limits.
- Funds must be used for qualified disability expenses.
- Open one directly through a state ABLE program – it is free to research.
For people who receive SSI or Medicaid, having “too much” in savings can put benefits at risk. ABLE accounts solve part of that problem by letting eligible people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. Here is how they work in 2026.
What an ABLE account is
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Money in the account (up to program limits) generally does not count toward the resource limits for SSI and Medicaid, so you can save for the future while keeping benefits. Earnings grow tax-free when used for qualified expenses.
Who is eligible
Eligibility is based on having a qualifying disability that began before a set age. That age threshold is expanding, which will make many more people eligible – so if you were told before that you did not qualify by age, check the current rule at the official source below. You do not have to be on SSI to open an account, but you must meet the disability criteria.
Qualified disability expenses
Funds can be used for a broad range of qualified disability expenses, such as housing, transportation, education, health and wellness, assistive technology, and basic living costs that relate to your disability. Keep records showing how withdrawals were used.
How ABLE protects benefits
- Balances up to the program limit are generally excluded from SSI’s resource test (special rules apply to larger balances and housing withdrawals).
- Medicaid eligibility is generally not affected by ABLE savings within the rules.
This makes ABLE useful alongside applying for SSI and for older adults on SSI.
How to open one
- Choose a state ABLE program (many accept out-of-state residents – compare fees and features).
- Enroll online with the beneficiary’s information.
- Set up contributions (from family, friends, or the beneficiary) up to the annual limit.
Research is free – never pay a third party just to open an account.
Related help
ABLE pairs well with other supports: Medicaid and Medicare dual eligibility, VA health care for veterans with disabilities, and the overview of benefits for low-income seniors.
Official source
Compare programs and confirm the current eligibility rules through the ABLE National Resource Center and the SSA at ssa.gov/ssi/spotlights/spot-able.html and ablenrc.org. It is free to research.
Frequently asked questions
Will an ABLE account make me lose SSI or Medicaid?
Generally no, within the program rules. Balances up to the limit are excluded from SSI’s resource test, and Medicaid is generally not affected. Special rules apply to very large balances and some housing withdrawals.
Who can put money in?
Anyone – the beneficiary, family, or friends – up to the annual contribution limit. Working beneficiaries may be able to contribute more.
What can I spend it on?
Qualified disability expenses, such as housing, transportation, education, health, and assistive technology. Keep records of each withdrawal.
What to Do Next
Ready to act? Applying, checking status, and getting help are free through the official agency – you never pay a third party. Gather what you need, apply or respond early, and keep copies of everything you submit.
See also: the complete guide to disability benefits.
Next steps
Ready to take the next step? benefits eligibility quick-check, documents you need to apply. Confirm details at the official Benefits.gov site. Applying is always free, and GlobalBenefits is not a government agency.