For families caring for a loved one with disabilities, the financial planning landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. ABLE accounts have evolved from a niche savings tool into a powerful planning strategy, yet many financial advisors still misunderstand how these accounts work—or when they may be more effective than a Special Needs Trust. Recent legislative changes have expanded contribution opportunities, increased flexibility, and improved the long-term value of ABLE accounts, creating new planning possibilities for clients with disabilities and their families. In this practical and highly actionable webinar, we will explore the latest rules governing ABLE accounts and how advisors can incorporate them into comprehensive special needs planning. You will also learn how ABLE accounts interact with SSI, Medicaid eligibility, and traditional special needs trusts, allowing you to guide families through one of the most complex areas of financial planning.
This session will help you understand when an ABLE account may be the ideal solution, when a Special Needs Trust is still essential, and when both strategies should be used together to protect benefits while maximizing financial flexibility.
Whether you already work with special needs families or simply want to be prepared when a client asks for guidance, this webinar will equip you with clear planning frameworks and practical strategies you can immediately apply.
In this webinar, you will learn:
- The latest legislative updates and rule changes affecting ABLE accounts
- How ABLE accounts help individuals with disabilities save without jeopardizing SSI or Medicaid eligibility
- The key differences between ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts
- How ABLE accounts can provide spending flexibility that trusts often cannot


Bette Ann launched the Maryland ABLE program 7 years ago and has helped to grow this program to over $108.6 million dollars saved and invested by more than 7,300 account holders.
Alisa Ferguson serves as Commonwealth Savers Associate General Counsel and Programs Director for Commonwealth Savers Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program, ABLEnow.