What to Know About STABLE Accounts in Ohio

Families with loved ones who have disabilities often face a difficult balance: saving money for future needs while protecting eligibility for essential government benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). An ABLE account in Ohio—known as a STABLE account—offers a powerful solution. These accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save and invest money without jeopardizing the benefits they rely on. If you are considering opening a STABLE account, it’s important to understand how these accounts work, how they differ from special needs trusts, and what they can be used for.

What Is a STABLE Account?

A STABLE account (Achieving a Better Life Experience account) is a tax-advantaged savings account designed for people with disabilities. It was created under the 2014 ABLE Act and gives individuals a way to save while keeping eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other means-tested benefits intact. In Ohio, ABLE accounts are called STABLE accounts and are administered through the State Treasurer’s office. You can open one entirely online, and the setup process is straightforward.

Key features of a STABLE account in Ohio include:

• Eligibility: The disability must have begun before age 26. (Starting in 2026, the age will increase to 46, expanding access.)
• Contribution limits: Up to $19,000 can be contributed annually in 2025. Working beneficiaries may contribute additional amounts from their own earned income under the ABLE to Work program.
• Tax benefits: Earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals are tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses.
• Impact on benefits: The first $100,000 in a STABLE account is excluded from SSI resource limits, and Medicaid eligibility is never affected.

STABLE Accounts vs. Special Needs Trusts

It’s common to wonder whether a STABLE account or a special needs trust is the better option. While both tools serve the same overall goal—allowing a person with disabilities to save money without losing benefits—they operate differently.

• Ease of use: A STABLE account is much easier and less expensive to set up than a special needs trust. It functions like an online investment account with direct spending options such as the STABLE debit card.
• Contribution limits: STABLE accounts have annual and lifetime contribution caps, while a special needs trust can hold unlimited funds.
• Expense coverage: STABLE accounts cover a broader range of daily living expenses, including housing and basic living costs. Special needs trusts are typically limited to supplemental expenses such as medical equipment, education, or travel.
• Management: A special needs trust requires a trustee and may involve more complex oversight, while a STABLE account is managed directly by the account owner or a legal guardian.

For many families, using both tools together makes sense. A special needs trust can handle larger inheritances or gifts, while a STABLE account covers everyday expenses.

What Can STABLE Accounts Be Used For?

Funds in a STABLE account must be used for qualified disability expenses (QDEs), but this category is intentionally broad. The goal is to give individuals the ability to pay for items and services that improve their health, independence, and quality of life.

Examples of qualified expenses include:

• Housing costs: Rent, mortgage payments, utilities, and repairs
• Education: Tuition, books, tutoring, and training programs
• Transportation: Car purchases or modifications, public transportation, and rideshare services
• Health and wellness: Medical and dental care, medications, therapy, and mental health services
• Assistive technology: Computers, smartphones, hearing aids, screen readers, and mobility devices
• Support services: In-home caregivers, job coaching, and accessibility modifications

Ohio’s STABLE accounts even offer a prepaid debit card linked directly to the account, making it easier to pay for approved expenses while maintaining oversight. Using STABLE funds correctly ensures continued tax advantages and benefit protection, while also giving flexibility to address everyday needs.

Protecting Your Loved One’s Future

If you’re caring for someone with a disability or planning for your own long-term financial security, a STABLE account in Ohio can be a valuable tool. It simplifies saving, provides tax advantages, and ensures access to essential benefits remains intact. At Gudorf Law Group, LLC, we help Ohio families understand how STABLE accounts fit into a broader plan alongside special needs trusts and other estate planning tools. If you are considering opening a STABLE account or want to know whether a STABLE account, special needs trust, or both are right for your family, we can guide you through the process. Contact Gudorf Law Group, LLC today to schedule a consultation and take the next step in protecting your loved one’s future.