In communities across Nebraska, thousands of families share a common concern: How can a loved one with a disability build financial savings without risking important benefits?
For years, the answer was complicated and discouraging. Today, it doesn’t have to be.
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Nebraska, as proclaimed by Governor Jim Pillen. My office is using this occasion to help more families learn about the Enable Savings Plan — a powerful tool that helps individuals with disabilities save for their future.
About Enable
Administered by the State Treasurer’s Office, Enable was launched in June 2016 as part of the federal ABLE program (Achieving a Better Life Experience). Since the program’s start a decade ago, Enable has grown to 5,241 accounts with more than $61 million in assets to help individuals with disabilities achieve their best life.
These accounts offer tax-free investment growth and tax-free withdrawals when used for qualified disability expenses such as housing, education, transportation, health care, and assistive technology.
Enable accounts allow individuals — and their loved ones — to set aside funds for disability-related needs without jeopardizing eligibility for critical benefits. These tax-advantaged savings plans help families prepare for a time when parents or guardians may no longer be able to provide care or financial support.
Recent Improvements
Thanks to recent federal changes, Enable’s age eligibility guidelines have been expanded significantly.
Accounts are now available to individuals with a disability that began prior to age 46, replacing the prior onset age limit of 26. This means more Nebraskans who have developed life-changing disabilities — including injured military veterans and first responders — can benefit from this state-sponsored plan.
For 2026, individuals, families, businesses, and organizations can contribute up to $20,000 per year to an Enable account. Contributions may also qualify for a Nebraska state income tax deduction of up to $10,000 for most taxpayers ($5,000 for married taxpayers filing separately).
Meanwhile, Nebraska’s “Give to Enable” program makes it easy for businesses and non-profits to donate to deserving individuals with accounts. To expand this effort, I recently met with Nebraska’s congressional delegation and asked for their support of federal legislation (H.R. 4644 / S. 2459) that will make it easier for employers to contribute to an employee’s Enable account.
At the same time, my office is working with state lawmakers to strengthen protections for the Enable program following the death of a beneficiary. Legislative Bill 1240, introduced by Sen. Dave Murman and prioritized by Speaker John Arch, would further safeguard Enable assets from Medicaid estate recovery, providing families with even more confidence.
Learn More Online
When every citizen is empowered to reach their highest potential, Nebraska is at its best.
Enable accounts promote financial independence and long-term stability for necessities like adaptive technology, accessible housing modifications, or transportation to get to work. This is why I hope to see Enable serving more Nebraska families.
If you or someone you know could benefit from an Enable account, I urge you to visit EnableSavings.com. You will find helpful details to get started, as well as an overview of Enable’s savings options and a list of frequently asked questions.
Finally, if you have specific questions or need special assistance, please contact our Enable director, Shauna Paolini, at 402-471-2455 or shauna.paolini@nebraska.gov. It is our goal to ensure every eligible Nebraskan can utilize this program to achieve an even better life.