A Resource for Autism Awareness Month

April is Autism Awareness Month, a perfect time to highlight a key financial resource available for individuals with disabilities across the Commonwealth and nation. Attainable, the Massachusetts ABLE Savings Plan, provides the opportunity for individuals with disabilities to save in a tax-advantaged account without affecting their federal means-tested benefits. The program was developed as a result of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, enacted on December 19, 2014.

MEFA is proud to serve as state sponsor of Attainable, which supports the health, independence, and quality of life of individuals with disabilities. The program offers several benefits, including:

• Various investment options


• No federal taxes on earnings if used for qualified disability expenses


• Professional management by Fidelity Investments

As well, Attainable accounts are not considered when assessing eligibility for SSI disability benefits (for accounts up to $100,000) or for Medicaid and some other federal means-tested benefits.

Qualified disability expenses within the Attainable plan are broadly defined and include those related to the beneficiary’s education, housing, transportation, employment training and support, assistive technology and related services, personal support services, health, and basic living expenses.

To learn more about Attainable or sign up for an account, visit our webpage here. You’ll also find a list of resources beneficial to individuals with disabilities and their families. And if you’d like to speak to someone about Attainable, I’m happy to provide any information you need. You can reach me at (800) 449-MEFA (6332) ext 4843 or attainable@mefa.org.