Stephen Wira ABLE Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Dingell, Debbie [D-MI-6]
- Committees
- Ways and Means Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jun 22, 2026
Bottom line
This bill aims to enhance the financial independence of individuals with disabilities by allowing them to save more in ABLE accounts without jeopardizing their eligibility for critical Supplemental Security Income benefits.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Stephen Beck, Jr., ABLE Act of 2014 to increase the amount of money held in an ABLE account that is disregarded when determining eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. It raises the current $100,000 exclusion limit to $150,000 for calendar year 2026, and then mandates annual inflation adjustments to this new limit using the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers for subsequent years.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the current $100,000 asset limit for ABLE accounts, beyond which SSI benefits are affected, is outdated and too restrictive given rising living costs. Increasing this limit and indexing it to inflation will provide greater financial security and independence for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to save for future needs like housing, education, and healthcare without fear of losing essential benefits.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that increasing the asset disregard could lead to higher federal expenditures for the SSI program, as more individuals might qualify or retain benefits for longer periods. They might also contend that the focus should be on broader reforms to disability benefits rather than incrementally increasing asset limits, or that such changes could be exploited.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its provisions quickly.
Section 2(a) and 2(b)
Adjustment of ABLE Account Asset Exclusion for SSI Eligibility
This provision amends the Stephen Beck, Jr., ABLE Act of 2014 to increase the amount of funds in an ABLE account that are not counted as a resource for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligibility purposes. Currently, amounts over $100,000 in an ABLE account can affect SSI benefits. This bill raises that threshold to $150,000 for calendar year 2026 and mandates that the Commissioner of Social Security annually adjust this amount for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers for subsequent calendar years.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this adjustment is crucial for the financial well-being of individuals with disabilities. It addresses the rising cost of living and the need for greater savings to cover disability-related expenses, promoting financial independence and reducing reliance on other forms of public assistance.
Critics contend
Opponents might express concerns about the potential long-term fiscal impact on the SSI program, suggesting that increasing the asset limit could expand the pool of eligible beneficiaries or allow current beneficiaries to retain benefits for longer, thereby increasing federal outlays.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the goal of promoting financial independence and security for individuals with disabilities against potential increases in federal spending for the SSI program. It also addresses the tension between fixed asset limits and the eroding effect of inflation over time.