FROM THE ARKANSAS TREASURER OF STATE’S OFFICE
Released: 01/02/2026
Treasurer Announces Expanded Eligibility for Arkansas ABLE Accounts
Little Rock, Ark. – January 2, 2026 – Arkansas Treasurer of State John Thurston announced today that more Arkansans with disabilities may now open an ABLE account. Starting January 1, the age-of-onset limit increased from 26 to 46, opening the door for thousands of Arkansans to save for their futures without risking the benefits they depend on. This change may allow anyone whose disability began before age 46 to now qualify for an ABLE account.
The Arkansas ABLE account offers individuals a safe, flexible account to save for everyday needs, such as housing costs, medical and therapy bills, transportation, assistive technology, and basic living expenses. ABLE accounts help people save for these needs without affecting important federal benefits like SSI and Medicaid. The program continues to grow, with 14% increase in accounts established and 32% growth in assets in the last twelve months, reflecting savings from families across the state.
“This is a big step forward,” said Treasurer Thurston. “More Arkansans will be able to save for the things that make life better, and they can do it knowing their benefits are protected.”
“Families often tell us how much ABLE accounts help them plan for the future,” said Chris Scott, Acting Director of the Arkansas ABLE Program. “By expanding who qualifies, we’re giving more people the chance to build stability and take control of their own goals.”
Constance Tullis, who spoke in support of the change shared, “The Arkansas ABLE program is a vital resource for individuals with disabilities… Unfortunately, I missed the program’s age eligibility requirement by just a few days – turning 26 shortly before I could qualify. It’s difficult to put into words how devastating it felt to realize that something so arbitrary… could keep me from accessing this life-changing program, especially for those of us who rely on Medicaid. For many of us, these accounts are NOT a luxury – they’re a lifeline.”
Arkansas ABLE accounts are designed to meet people where they are. Both the growth in the accounts and the withdrawals for qualified expenses may be tax-free at both the state and federal level. Arkansas residents may also receive a state income tax deduction for contributions. Whether someone is saving a little at a time for frequent expenses or planning for larger needs, these benefits make it easier to build financial security.
The Treasurer noted that the expanded age rule will help adults who became disabled later in life and now face financial pressures by balancing savings and benefits. With this change, many of them may now be eligible for an ABLE account for the first time.
The Treasurer also thanked Arkansas lawmakers for adopting the federal change, noting that their support helps strengthen financial freedom and peace of mind for people with disabilities.
Arkansans can learn more or open an account by visiting savewithable.com/ar.
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The Arkansas ABLE Plan, administered by the Treasurer of State’s Office, is a savings program that helps eligible Arkansans with disabilities save for important expenses without losing access to benefits like SSI and Medicaid. ABLE accounts offer flexible spending options for housing, medical needs, transportation, assistive technology, and other disability-related costs. Both the growth in the account and withdrawals for qualified expenses is tax-free at the state and federal level, and Arkansas contributors may also receive a state income tax deduction. To learn more or open an account, visit savewithable.com/ar or follow the program on Facebook
Media Contact: Amanda O’Neal
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