ABLE Eligibility Expansion 2026: Who Qualifies and How to Enroll
Published on
February 2, 2026
The start of 2026 marks a major milestone for disability savings and financial inclusion in Florida. The ABLE Age Adjustment Act is now in effect, expanding eligibility for ABLE accounts to individuals whose disability onset occurred before age 46. Previously, ABLE programs were limited to individuals whose disability onset occurred before age 26, which excluded many adults whose disabilities began later in life due to accident, illness, or progressive health conditions.
Under the new eligibility rules, individuals may qualify if their disability meets Social Security’s definition or can be self-certified, and they are a U.S. citizen (Florida resident for ABLE United). This includes individuals living with mobility-related disabilities, cancer-related disabilities, neurological disorders, traumatic injuries, mental health conditions, and other diagnoses that typically begin in adulthood.
ABLE funds can be used for a wide range of qualified disability expenses — including health care, therapy, housing, transportation, assistive technology, employment support, and basic living needs — while maintaining Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid benefits. Contributions may come from the individual, family, friends, or support networks, and grow tax-free.
Where to Start: a Simple Step-by-Step Overview
Individuals considering opening an account can begin by:
- Reviewing qualification requirements using our online eligibility quiz
- Gathering basic documentation, such as disability onset information
- Creating an online profile and selecting how contributions will be made
- Funding the account with an initial contribution of $25 (after the initial contribution, no minimum required)
- Using the account for qualified disability expenses, as needed
A Real-Life Perspective
For Justine, who sustained a spinal cord injury at age 40, the expansion is personal.
“Finances have been one of the biggest challenges since my injury — the cost of living with a disability adds up quickly. Having an ABLE account available to me will provide financial flexibility and security I haven’t had before. Being able to save for healthcare, transportation, housing, and other expenses that support my independence — without affecting benefits I rely on — is a game changer for my quality of life.”
— Justine, new ABLE United ambassador
