ABLE Program Spotlight: Making the Most of Your ABLE Account with the National ABLE Alliance

March 20, 2019

Throughout 2019, the ABLE National Resource Center (ABLE NRC) will be conducting a series of bi-monthly “ABLE Program Spotlight” webinars. These webinars are intended for those who already have a basic understanding of ABLE. State ABLE programs that are a part of multi-state collaborations, as well as individual state programs, will provide program specific details, general guidance and best practices. Each program spotlight will also cover the range of investment options offered, an often-confusing aspect for individuals who want to make the most of their ABLE account but are new to the concepts of investing and saving.

The first spotlight webinar highlights the National ABLE Alliance (NAA). The NAA is a 16-state consortium, plus Washington, D.C., that represents more than 25 percent of the nation’s ABLE-eligible population. The NAA state plans offer high-quality, low-cost ABLE accounts to eligible individuals and their families nationwide.

This presentation covers:

  • What the NAA is
  • NAA program features
  • Assessing your needs to get the most out of your NAA account
  • Testimony from NAA account owners and authorized representatives on how they use their ABLE accounts
  • Questions and answers

Miranda Kennedy, ABLE NRC Director, moderated the webinar. Panelists included:

  • Karen Austin – Deputy Treasurer, Iowa State Treasurer’s Office
  • JJ Hanley   – Director, IL ABLE
  • Paul Souppa – (pronounced “Soup – Pay”) – ChFC, Senior Investment Analyst, Investment Management Ascensus Government Savings
  • Lauren McClain – Business Development Specialist, TrustBank, Parent, Authorized Representative
  • Wendy Settles – Peer Supporter and Disability Rights Specialist, IMPACT Center for Independent Living, Account Owner

Webinar Materials:

Presentation Slides
Transcript
Top Questions and Answers from the Webinar