Beginning January 1, 2026, eligibility for ABLE accounts will expand significantly, opening the door for many more individuals with disabilities to take advantage of these powerful savings tools. The age of eligibility will increase from 26 to 46, giving individuals an additional 20 years during which they may qualify for an ABLE account. MEFA is proud to serve as the state sponsor of Attainable®, the Massachusetts ABLE program.

What’s Changing

Under current rules, to be eligible for an ABLE account, an individual must have had the onset of a qualifying disability before age 26. As of January 1, 2026, that age threshold increases to 46.

This means that individuals whose disability began any time before their 46th birthday may be eligible to open and benefit from an ABLE account. Importantly, eligibility is based on the onset of the disability, not the date of diagnosis. In many cases, a diagnosis may come years after symptoms or limitations first appear, so this distinction is critical.

This important change is the result of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act, which was included as part of the federal SECURE 2.0 Act. It represents one of the most meaningful updates to the ABLE program since its creation.

By expanding the eligibility age, this change makes ABLE accounts accessible to millions more people—including many Veterans, individuals with later-onset disabilities, and adults who experience life-altering illness or injury in midlife.

Why ABLE Accounts Are So Valuable

ABLE accounts allow eligible individuals with disabilities to save and invest money for qualified disability-related expenses without jeopardizing eligibility for certain means-tested public benefits, such as SSI or Medicaid. Funds can be used for a wide range of expenses, including housing, transportation, education, assistive technology, healthcare, and more.

For individuals and families planning for long-term financial stability, ABLE accounts can play a vital role in supporting independence and quality of life.

Looking Ahead

The increase in the ABLE eligibility age represents a major step forward in expanding access to financial tools for the disability community. By recognizing that disabilities can occur at many stages of life, this change better reflects real-world experiences and provides more people with the opportunity to plan, save, and invest for their future.

For more information about the Attainable® Savings Plan, click below.

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