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ABLE Accounts
ABLE Accounts, which are tax-free savings accounts for people with disabilities and their families, are now being created as a result of the passage of the Stephen Beck Jr., Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2014 or better known as the ABLE Act. Income earned by the accounts will not be taxed. Contributions to the account made by any person (the account beneficiary, family and friends) will be made using post-taxed dollars and will not be tax deductible. These savings accounts will not affect a person's eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other public benefits. Accounts must be used for disability-related expenses that are not covered by insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare. To be eligible for an ABLE account, people must have onset of disability before the age of 26 and receive SSI and/or SSDI. If a person doesn't receive SSI/SSDI, but still meets the age of disability requirement, he/she could still be eligible to open an ABLE account if they meet Social Security's definition and criteria regarding significant limitations and obtain a letter from a doctor.
Each state will have their own stipulations for ABLE accounts. Earlier this summer, states began launching programs allowing individuals to open these accounts. It's unknown when Wisconsin will establish its program for accounts; however, in some states, people do not have to be a resident to open an ABLE account. In other words, people who live in a state that doesn't yet have a program setup can open an account in a state which does. We've setup an ABLE account section on the Network where we'll continue to add information about ABLE account programs as more are created.
Take our One-Minute Poll
We're bringing one-minute polls back. To start off with, just for fun, this month we're asking people what their favorite summer activity is. Take our one-minute poll now!
Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:
- Make Change Happen: SPARK Grants are designed to organize groups that aim to make changes in their communities resulting in a positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities. Applications due on July 29th. Apply today!
- ADA 26th: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) turns 26th at the end of this month. Read about the many ways it has improved the lives of people living with disabilities.
- Summertime Tips: The summer season can often present a host of challenges for people with disabilities. Here is a list of tips and information to keep in mind about summer fun and safety.
- Staying Fit: Many times, it's challenging for people with disabilities to stay physically active. Learn about how a technology company will soon release software that will be able to track activity level for people who use wheelchairs.
- Partners in Policymaking: Partners is an advocacy and systems training for individuals who will be able to work with legislation and communities on policies and initiatives that will support participation and inclusion of people with disabilities. Find out how to apply!
- Innovative News App: A new app allows people who have visual impairments to enjoy their favorite newspapers without needing any special formats. Find put how the app works!
- Family Care/IRIS Expand: For over 400 people in one Wisconsin county, the wait for long-term care services will soon be over. Learn which county Family Care and IRIS are now in.
For July's entry, Stacy discusses how amusement and theme parks can be challenging places for many people who have disabilities. We encourage you to ask her questions and/or share your experiences as well.
Here's a sample of upcoming events listed on the Self-Determination Network:
- Parent to Parent Training: July 30th, 9am to 3pm, Neenah WI
- Disability Pride Festival: July 30th, 12pm to 5pm, Brittingham Park, Madison WI
Post your event on the Self-Determination Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? Contact Stacy Ellingen.
The Self-Determination Network is powered by InControl Wisconsin and supported financially by our members and Sponsors. We couldn't keep this Network going with you! Find out how you can help support the Network.
Florida launched its program for ABLE accounts (accounts that allow people with disabilities to have a savings account without jeopardizing their benefits). In Florida, the program is known as "United ABLE." Accounts can be used for disability-related expenses that will increase and/or maintain a person's health, independence, or quality of life. United ABLE is only available to Florida residents.
Applications are being accepted for the Board for People with Developmental Disabilities Wisconsin Partners in Policymaking. Partners is a six-session advocacy and systems change training program designed to develop a group of future leaders across the state, who are able to work with legislators and communities on policies and initiatives that will support the full participation and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all aspects of life. Apply now!
Download the application here: http://www.wi-bpdd.org/projects/partnersinpolicymaking/partnersadvocacytraining.cfm
A new app with VoiceOver technology allows people who have visual impairments to enjoy their favorite newspapers. The free app doesn't need any special formats. It works directly from the newspaper website and uses the computer version algorithms to interpret the newspaper layout. The app supports English, Spanish, French, and German.
WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES: Family Care and IRIS Programs Expand to Rock County
By SD Network, 2016-07-06
On July 1st, Family Care and IRIS expanded to Rock County. This will put an end to a waiting list for over 400 people who have been waiting for long-term care service. The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Rock County has been counseling people, helping them decide which program best meets their needs.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) turns 26 at the end of July. The ADA improves lives of people with disabilities in many ways. This blog talks about some of them and discusses briefly how the Act was formed.
DISABILITY CONNECTION NEWSLETTER: 10 Things to Know about Summer Fun & Safety
By SD Network, 2016-07-05
Summertime is usually thought of as a time to get outdoors and enjoy the sun. Families often take vacations to theme parks and waterparks, people play sports, etc... For many people with disabilities, though, the summer season can present a host of challenge. Are parks accessible? How can I stay safe in the heat? The list goes on and on.
Here is a great list of things to keep in mind about summer fun and safety. There are a bunch of links to helpful resources included in the list.
People with disabilities often struggle to stay physically active. Apple recently announced that the Apple Watch will soon allow people who use wheelchairs to track their activity level much like the fitness trackers allow for people running and walking. The software update coming in fall will apply wheelchair pushes to all-day calorie goals. It will also be to offer things such as wheelchair-specific workouts.