We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
Are you or a loved one living with a disability and seeking financial security without risking vital public benefits? ABLE accounts were established to empower individuals with disabilities, allowing for tax-advantaged savings that preserve eligibility for programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Discover how ABLE accounts provide a pathway to financial independence by supporting disability-related expenses, and learn how you can manage these accounts to benefit from their unique advantages.
Key Takeaways
ABLE accounts offer tax-advantaged savings for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to accumulate funds without affecting eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid, provided disability onset occurs before age 26.
Contributions to ABLE accounts are capped annually at $18,000, with additional allowances for employed beneficiaries; balances above $100,000 may impact SSI benefits but not Medicaid eligibility.
Withdrawals from ABLE accounts are tax-free when used for qualified disability expenses; however, non-qualified expense withdrawals incur income tax and a 10% penalty on the earnings portion.
Understanding ABLE Accounts: A Path to Financial Security
ABLE accounts are not just ordinary savings accounts; they are specifically designed to provide financial autonomy to individuals with disabilities and their families. Allowing the beneficiary and their family members to contribute, these accounts act as a safety net, offering financial assistance without impacting the beneficiary’s federal benefits. One of the key features that sets ABLE accounts apart is their tax benefits. They provide the advantage of tax-free growth, and certain states may also offer income tax or other advantages for contributions to an ABLE account.
What remains of the ABLE account’s leftover funds after the beneficiary’s demise? They can initially be used to settle any outstanding qualified disability expenses, including funeral and burial costs, after which the state may assert a claim against the remaining funds.
Defining ABLE Accounts
Also referred to as the Achieving a Better Life Experience account, the ABLE account offers substantial advantages to individuals with disabilities and their families. It provides a valuable opportunity to save and invest while maintaining eligibility for essential government benefits. Introduced on December 19, 2014, these tax-advantaged savings accounts marked a significant milestone in promoting the financial security of individuals with disabilities through the use of a tax-advantaged account.
Unlike standard savings accounts, ABLE accounts uniquely permit eligible individuals to accumulate and invest money without affecting their eligibility for public benefits like SSI.
The Importance of ABLE Accounts
ABLE accounts serve as a financial cushion, providing stability and independence to individuals with disabilities and enabling them to save without jeopardizing access to crucial benefits like Medicaid. These tax-advantaged savings accounts empower individuals with disabilities to manage their funds and reap tax benefits, thereby promoting their financial autonomy.
ABLE accounts contribute to significantly enhancing quality of life by addressing crucial disability-related expenses, including:
Education
Housing
Transportation
Healthcare
These accounts, provided by the National Resource Center, offer financial backing for personal support services and other vital aspects.
Who Qualifies as a Designated Beneficiary?
Designated beneficiaries of ABLE accounts are individuals with disabilities whose onset of disability occurred before the age of 26. Even if the disability was diagnosed after age 26, an individual is still eligible for an ABLE account as long as the onset occurred before their 26th birthday. Various physical, intellectual, and mental disabilities make someone eligible to open an ABLE account, including:
blindness
deafness
cerebral palsy
muscular dystrophy
spina bifida
juvenile-onset Huntington’s disease
multiple disabilities
Individuals receiving benefits under SSI or SSDI are automatically eligible to establish an ABLE account, provided their disability onset occurred before they turned 26.
Navigating Eligibility and Contribution Rules
Managing ABLE accounts heavily relies on eligibility and contribution rules. So, who exactly qualifies for these accounts? Any individual with a disability that occurred before age 26 is eligible to open an ABLE account. The annual maximum contribution allowed for ABLE accounts is determined by the annual gift tax exemption, which is currently $18,000.
When it comes to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, here are some important considerations regarding ABLE accounts:
ABLE account balances of up to $100,000 are not considered as resources of the individual.
However, if not utilized in the month of withdrawal, qualified distributions from ABLE accounts for housing expenses will be included in the resource limit for SSI.
Suppose the balance of an ABLE account surpasses $100,000, causing the SSI recipient to exceed the $2,000 resource limit. In that case, SSI benefits will be suspended indefinitely, provided that the individual continues to meet the eligibility criteria for SSI.
Meeting Eligibility Criteria
For an individual to qualify for an ABLE account, they must:
Have a significant disability that started before they turned 26
If they receive SSI or SSDI benefits, they are automatically eligible for an ABLE account if their disability began before age 26
Suppose they are not currently receiving SSI or SSDI benefits. In that case, they can still be eligible if they have a disability certification that verifies their substantial disability that began before reaching the age of 26.
Understanding the Annual Contribution Limit
The annual contribution limit for ABLE accounts is $15,000. Still, employed beneficiaries can contribute additional amounts, capped at the lower yearly compensation or the Federal Poverty Level for a one-person household in their state of residence for the previous year. However, it’s important to note that ABLE accounts are subject to an aggregate limit equal to the limit set by the state’s 529 plan, and no contributions can be accepted once this limit is reached.
State limits typically vary between $250,000 and $450,000, with the specific amount dependent on the location.
How ABLE Accounts Affect SSI Benefits
An ABLE account’s balance exceeding $100,000 can affect SSI benefits. If this happens, the beneficiary’s SSI cash benefit will be suspended until the account balance falls below $100,000. But the good news is that ABLE accounts will not impact Medicaid eligibility, and even if the balance in an ABLE account surpasses $100,000, Medicaid eligibility persists as long as the recipient does not exceed the SSI resource limit.
Strategic Uses for ABLE Account Funds
The strategic usage of ABLE account funds can considerably contribute to the financial stability of individuals with disabilities. These funds can be used to cover a wide array of qualified disability expenses, including:
Basic living expenses
Education
Housing
Transportation
Employment training and support
Assistive technology
Health care expenses
Financial management and administrative services
Legal fees
Funeral and burial expenses
You can use ABLE accounts to acquire assistive technology, including mobility aids such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes, crutches, and prosthetic devices. Apart from this, ABLE account funds can be strategically utilized to cover expenses related to education and essential living costs for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can maintain a higher quality of life without jeopardizing their federal benefits.
Nevertheless, keep in mind that if ABLE account funds are used for non-qualified expenses, the earnings portion of the withdrawal will be subject to income tax and a 10% penalty.
Covering Qualified Disability Expenses
Qualified disability expenses cover a wide spectrum, including:
Education
Housing
Transportation
Employment training and support
Assistive technology
ABLE account funds can cover housing and qualified disability-related expenses (QDEs) for supplies or services related to employment training programs. Additionally, expenses for UBER, LYFT, taxis, buses, or train services are permissible within the ABLE account. However, it is essential to note that there may be restrictions on expenses that can only be paid quarterly or annually.
Investing in Education and Employment Training
ABLE accounts can be strategically utilized to cover educational expenses, such as tuition, books, and other educational supplies. Funds held in an ABLE account are eligible for qualified disability-related expenses (QDEs) that pertain to supplies or services associated with the account owner’s employment training programs. ABLE accounts can fund education and training programs classified as qualified disability expenses.
These investments are considered allowable expenses that facilitate personal and professional development while maintaining eligibility for public benefits, such as Medicaid.
Planning for Basic Living Expenses and Beyond
ABLE accounts provide flexibility in expense planning by allowing account holders to use the funds for various qualified disability expenses, thus meeting their individual needs. Indeed, ABLE accounts can cover long-term financial goals, including retirement planning.
An ABLE account provides a tax-advantaged method for individuals with disabilities to accumulate savings without affecting their qualification for means-tested government benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid.
Tax Advantages and Financial Management of ABLE Accounts
ABLE accounts offer various tax benefits, from tax-free growth to potential state tax deductions. They provide the advantage of tax-free growth for federal income tax purposes. Managing funds in an ABLE account effectively is crucial. Before making any investments, reading the plan’s offering circular and comprehending plan limitations is essential.
However, withdrawing money from an ABLE account for non-qualified disability expenses will result in the earnings portion of the funds being subjected to income tax and an additional 10% federal tax penalty, per the Internal Revenue Service guidelines. This contrasts the tax-deductible nature of contributions made to the account.
Income Tax Benefits for Account Owners
Owners of ABLE accounts benefit from the following:
Tax-free growth as investment earnings within the account grow without being subject to taxes when used for qualified disability expenses (QDEs)
Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses from ABLE accounts are exempt from taxation for the beneficiary
Individuals with ABLE accounts may qualify for the Federal Saver’s Credit based on their contributions to the account.
The account owner’s contributions determine the Federal Saver’s Credit calculation for ABLE accounts. The credit amount is variable, being either 50%, 20%, or 10% of the maximum allowed contribution amount, contingent upon the account owner’s filing status and adjusted gross income.
Balancing Investments and Risks
The investment options for ABLE accounts vary among different plans but typically include a range of choices such as:
Mutual funds
Money market funds
Stocks
Bonds
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
Certificates of deposit (CDs)
There is a variation in risk tolerance among ABLE account holders, with some displaying high-risk tolerance and opting for aggressive investment options, while others prefer more conservative options.
It is crucial to consider your anticipated timeline for using the funds to balance risks and investments in an ABLE account, as this will determine your risk tolerance. The investment performance can be assessed through one-, three-, and five-year returns, which is in line with the evaluation of other investment accounts.
Administrative Services and Legal Fees
Usually, ABLE account administrative fees are minimal and primarily include maintenance and financial institution charges. The administrative costs for ABLE accounts are determined based on the expenses associated with financial management and administrative services offered by the financial institution responsible for managing the account.
The legal costs connected with ABLE accounts encompass expenditures related to ABLE account supervision, monitoring, and funeral and burial expenses.
Comparing ABLE Accounts to Other Financial Tools
ABLE accounts offer numerous unique advantages, including:
The ability to save unspent work earnings or Social Security benefits without risking the individual’s eligibility for SSI and Medicaid by going over $2,000
Different financial limits are set by each state, which are typically above $500,000
The first $100,000 in the account is exempt from impacting the beneficiary’s eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
State programs determine investment options in ABLE accounts and may change semi-annually, whereas trustees oversee investments in special needs trusts.
ABLE account fees are typically lower, encompassing maintenance and financial institution charges, in contrast to the attorney and trustee fees associated with SNTs. Although ABLE accounts offer several advantages, they are subject to a contribution limit, unlike trusts, which can receive unlimited contributions without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility.
ABLE Accounts Versus Special Needs Trusts
For 2024, ABLE accounts have a contribution limit of $18,000, and state ABLE limits vary from $235,000 to $550,000. In contrast, special needs trusts do not have a specific contribution limit.
A special needs trust is a legal arrangement established by a parent or guardian to guarantee that assets, such as money or a life insurance policy, are placed in an account and utilized to provide for the child with special needs.
Choosing the Right Financial Tool for Your Needs
In selecting an ABLE program, consider factors like the influence of income taxes, the program’s ability to accept out-of-state residents, and the variety of investment options it provides. A Special Needs Trust could be advantageous for long-term financial planning, handling significant assets, and when there is a need for more flexibility in managing funds, especially considering that ABLE accounts have contribution restrictions and may not be as appropriate for larger estates.
In contrast to traditional savings accounts, which can lead to disqualification from public benefits upon surpassing a specific asset threshold, ABLE accounts offer the following advantages:
Enable tax-preferred savings while preserving eligibility for essential programs such as Medicaid and SSI
Address particular requirements such as disability-related expenditures
Offer a means to financial stability through leveraging the account’s tax advantages and savings features
Financial goals play a pivotal role in optimizing the advantages of an ABLE account.
How to Open and Manage Your ABLE Account
The beneficiary holds the responsibility to set up and manage an ABLE account. In cases requiring assistance, their parents, conservator/guardian, or agent under a power of attorney can establish or manage the account. Opening an ABLE account is usually conducted via the online platform provided by the state ABLE program. Alternatively, individuals may explore additional enrollment avenues by contacting the state ABLE plan.
It is feasible to possess multiple ABLE accounts, provided that the aggregate contributions across all accounts do not surpass the annual contribution limit. It is crucial to manage ABLE accounts effectively to maintain financial independence by ensuring that contributions do not exceed limits and that the funds are used for qualifying expenses to continue receiving federal benefits.
Selecting an ABLE Program
In selecting an ABLE program, consider factors like the influence of income taxes, the program’s ability to accept out-of-state residents, and the variety of investment options it provides. The investment options for ABLE accounts vary among different plans but typically include a range of choices, such as mutual funds and money market funds.
Residents can open an ABLE account in any state that provides a program for out-of-state residents, allowing individuals to select a program that aligns with their needs, irrespective of their state of residence. The fees for ABLE programs may consist of a monthly fee for using a debit card, an annual account maintenance fee, and costs associated with selected investment options, with rates differing depending on the particular ABLE plan.
The Account Opening Process
Usually, you open an ABLE account by applying online via the state ABLE program’s website. Alternatively, you can open an account at ABLEnow.com by completing and submitting the application. To open an ABLE account, it is necessary to provide the following information:
Your name
Your address
Your Social Security number
Your date of birth
When opening an ABLE account, individuals are presented with investment options, including conservative income options that provide regular income and growth options designed to enhance the account’s value over time. The minimum initial deposit required to establish an ABLE account is $50, or $25 if utilizing electronic funds transfer.
Effective Financial Management Strategies
ABLE account holders can set financial goals effectively by recognizing their objectives, considering the impact of each goal on their health, independence, and quality of life, and differentiating between short-term and long-term aims. Supervising ABLE account activity can be accomplished by monitoring the account’s proximity to its limit, aligning fund management with personal objectives, maintaining accurate distribution records, and carefully observing fund utilization.
ABLE account owners are advised to:
Remain informed about regulatory changes by subscribing to updates from the ABLEnow program and consulting the able national resource center
Adhere to the current federal law, which limits investment selection changes to twice a year
Engage with elected officials to obtain the latest information
Investment risks in ABLE accounts should be addressed based on the individual’s risk tolerance and goals. Account owners can save, invest, or both, with the option to grow their funds or have them readily available for disability-related expenses.
Summary
In conclusion, ABLE accounts offer a beneficial financial tool for individuals with disabilities. They not only provide an avenue for tax-advantaged savings but also ensure that these savings do not impact the eligibility for federal benefits. ABLE accounts offer various uses, from covering disability-related expenses to funding education and employment training. Careful management and strategic planning can be a powerful tool in achieving financial independence and security.
Navigating the financial landscape with a disability might seem daunting, but ABLE accounts offer a beacon of hope. They provide the means to maintain financial independence, ensure eligibility for crucial public benefits, and invest in a better future. Remember, the journey to financial freedom is a marathon, not a sprint; every step towards better financial management is a step towards a more secure future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ABLE account, and how does it work?
An ABLE account allows eligible individuals with disabilities to save over $2,000 without losing federal benefits such as SSI and Medicaid. It is a tax-advantaged savings program designed to cover qualified disability expenses.
What are the disadvantages of an ABLE account?
The disadvantages of an ABLE account include potential Medicaid payback on the remaining funds after the beneficiary’s death and a contribution limit. Contributions may affect SSI benefits, and the account has a cap on assets. It’s essential to consider these factors before opening an ABLE account.
What is the difference between a 529 and an ABLE account?
The main difference between 529 and ABLE accounts is that 529 funds are meant for education and related expenses. In contrast, ABLE accounts cover a more comprehensive range of costs approved for people with disabilities.
What can ABLE accounts not be used for?
ABLE accounts cannot be used for legal fees, basic living expenses, funeral and burial expenses, or other expenses to enhance your child’s quality of life. Keep this in mind when planning for your child’s financial future.
What are the main advantages of ABLE accounts?
The main advantages of ABLE accounts include tax-free growth, potential state tax deductions, and the ability to save for disability-related expenses without affecting eligibility for federal benefits like Medicaid and SSI. These features make ABLE accounts a valuable financial tool for individuals with disabilities.
