ABLE Accounts Just Got More Accessible—Here’s What That Means

Keeping up with government benefits is a full-time job—on top of the one you already have. Rules change. Eligibility shifts. And missing the fine print could mean missing out on real help.

 That’s why we’re here. To keep you informed on the things that matter, so you can focus on what matters most: your family.

 Here’s one of those key updates…

 Starting January 1, 2026, individuals who became disabled before age 46 (instead of 26) will be eligible to open an ABLE account.

 For millions of people who became disabled in adulthood—veterans, accident survivors, folks with mental health challenges or chronic conditions—this change opens a new door to secure savings without losing critical benefits.

 If your loved one missed the ABLE eligibility window in the past, 2026 could be a fresh start.

Quick Refresher: What Is an ABLE Account?

 For families who are new to the term, here’s a plainspoken rundown:

 What’s an ABLE account?

 Think of it like a Roth IRA meets a 529 plan—for people with disabilities. It lets eligible individuals save money without jeopardizing benefits like SSI and Medicaid.

 Who qualifies?

 Until now, only individuals whose disability began before age 26 qualified. Starting in 2026, that jumps to before age 46.

 How much can you contribute?

 In 2025, the contribution limit is $19,000 per year (subject to annual adjustments). If the beneficiary is working and not contributing to a retirement plan, they may be able to contribute more.

 What can the money be used for?

 Funds can grow tax-free and be spent tax-free on qualified disability expenses—things like housing, education, therapy, transportation, assistive technology, job training, and more.

 Does it impact SSI or Medicaid?

 Here’s where it gets nuanced:

• SSI: If the ABLE account exceeds $100,000, SSI benefits can be suspended until the balance drops back below that level.
• Medicaid: The maximum account balance is $529,000, but Medicaid eligibility rules can vary by state. Some states enforce a Medicaid payback from the ABLE account after the beneficiary's death; others do not.

So while ABLE is a powerful tool, it’s essential to understand your state’s specific rules and to plan accordingly.

 Why This Matters

Planning for a loved one’s future is never one-size-fits-all. But ABLE accounts give families a flexible tool—especially for day-to-day needs and expenses that fall outside of what trusts typically cover.

 This new age expansion means more people can finally take advantage of it. If your child, spouse, sibling—or even you—became disabled after age 25 and before 46, now’s the time to prepare.

 Because when 2026 rolls around, you’ll want to be ready to act.

 Need Help? Let’s Talk

If you’re not sure how this affects your family, or whether an ABLE account should be part of your broader financial or estate plan, let’s have that conversation.

 Planning for someone’s lifetime care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You just need the right guide, and the right tools—at the right time.

 That time might just be now.

*The foregoing content reflects the opinions of Van Hulzen Asset Management DBA "Van Hulzen Financial Advisors" and is subject to change at any time without notice. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that the statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.