Illinois Expands ABLE Accounts, Allowing 250,000 More Residents with Disabilities to Save

New law raises age limit from 26 to 46, giving more Illinoisans access to disability savings tool without risking federal benefits.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The state of Illinois has expanded eligibility for ABLE accounts, a savings tool designed to help people with disabilities save for disability-related expenses without jeopardizing federal benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid. The new law raises the age limit for eligibility from 26 to 46, allowing an estimated 250,000 more Illinois residents with disabilities to open ABLE accounts.

Why it matters

ABLE accounts provide an important financial tool for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to save and invest money for disability-related expenses while preserving their eligibility for crucial federal benefits. The expansion of the program in Illinois will give far more residents the ability to plan for their future with greater independence and financial security.

The details

Previously, only individuals who experienced a qualifying disability before age 26 were eligible for ABLE accounts in Illinois. The new law raises the age limit to 46, significantly expanding the pool of residents who can now open these specialized savings accounts. ABLE accounts allow individuals to save up to $100,000 without affecting their SSI eligibility, and the funds can be used for a wide range of disability-related expenses.

  • The new law expanding ABLE account eligibility in Illinois went into effect on March 1, 2026.

The players

Michael Frerichs

The Illinois State Treasurer, who announced the expansion of ABLE account eligibility in the state.

Illinois

The state that has expanded access to ABLE accounts, allowing an estimated 250,000 more residents with disabilities to open these specialized savings accounts.

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What they’re saying

“Before this change, many adults injured later in life or diagnosed with disabilities after age 26 were excluded. This expansion gives far more Illinoisans the ability to save and plan for their future with independence and dignity.”

— Michael Frerichs, Illinois State Treasurer (Chambana Today)

What’s next

The Illinois State Treasurer's office is encouraging eligible residents to visit illinoisable.com to learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one.

The takeaway

The expansion of ABLE account eligibility in Illinois is a significant step forward in providing financial tools and independence for individuals with disabilities. By raising the age limit, the state has opened up this important savings program to many more residents, empowering them to plan for their future and cover disability-related expenses without risking their federal benefits.