1. Achieving A Better Life Experience CentsAble Chat 12:19

The Path To Achieving A Better Life Experience A 529 ABLE Plan leads to less stressUntil 2014, achieving a better life experience for the disabled was difficult and resulted in a lot of heartache for them and those caring for them. Too many assets meant reduced or lost SSI or SSDI benefits, therefore financial struggles were almost a given. According to Author Patricia Roberts, help is available through a 529 ABLE Plan. A visit to nast.org is a great start to gain more information.

Independence Is AttainableTax-free money leads to more controlThe freedom of a 529 ABLE plan is indisputable, because it provides tax free earnings on the money you save and the ability to spend that money, tax free, for a wide range of expenses. Independence is no longer a pipe dream, because these plans give more control and allow for more discretion in their quest to achieve a better life experience.

Benefits That Change LivesHelp is available from friends and familyBenefits of a 529 ABLE plan are vast and life-changing! Although capped at $15,000 per year, contributions are not limited to a disabled person’s minimal earnings, because friends, family and employers are allowed to contribute, as well. Furthermore, accounts valued at up to $100,000 will not affect SSI or SSDI benefits. And even though there’s no federal tax deduction for contributions, many states allow for this. These tax-free funds may be used for a variety of expenses including medical care, housing, transportation and education, to name a few, but a good place to get a full handle on benefits is ablenrc.org.

Who QualifiesHow to determine if a 529 ABLE is for youMedically qualified persons whose disability started before the age of 26 may take advantage of this plan, even if you don’t receive SSI or SSDI benefits, as long as you meet Social Security’s criteria and receive a letter of disability certification from a licensed doctor.

Take The First StepIt’s easy with the right informationOpening an account is fast and easy! A good place to start is giftofcollege.com because they outline available options for all 50 states, and be sure to check out their helpful flipbook.  Also, many online brokerage firms can help you set up a 529 ABLE plan.

Bobbi Olson Budget Coach & Host of the CentsAble Chat Podcast

After years of producing a financial radio show focused on managing million dollar portfolios, I realized that the strategies, concepts and ideas would work for any budget, and learned the basics of managing money.

It was easier than I ever thought it could be, and I’m now debt–free! I’m excited to share what I’ve learned and hear your stories, as we all strive to lead CentsAble lives!​