Videos

Welcome! STABLE Account is a savings and investment program administered by the state of Ohio and available for individuals with disabilities. This program empowers individuals and their families to save for everyday expenses and future needs without jeopardizing their eligibility for essential state and federal benefits.

In this overview, we explore STABLE Account basics, eligibility and benefits, and how to open an account.

In this special ABLE Today podcast episode, hosts Sara Hart Weir and Mark Raymond Jr. welcome Anne Gerhardt, who holds the historic distinction of being the world’s very first ABLE account holder, having opened her STABLE account in Ohio. Joining Anne for the podcast are two other advocates within the disability community; her father, Chip Gerhardt, and Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague. Together, they discuss the journey of ABLE accounts, their inspiring impact on individuals with disabilities, and the importance of financial independence and empowerment. Anne also shares her personal experiences, offering insights into how she is using her STABLE account to achieve her goals and enhance her quality of life.

Ruthie, a resident of Powell, Ohio, was born with a congenital heart defect. She underwent multiple surgeries as a baby and received a pacemaker early in life. Despite these challenges, Ruthie has demonstrated incredible strength and resilience, enduring several surgeries to enhance her quality of life, and her story is a positive influence for those around her. Now a vibrant high schooler, Ruthie enjoys spending time with her friends and actively engaging in her community. She loves making memories with her family and looks forward to pursuing college in the future. Her parents, Jackie and Chris, opened Ruthie's STABLE Account when she was in elementary school to ensure she would have financial resources as an adult. These savings are intended to support her education, travel, and overall financial well-being.

Nate, a resident of Lucas County, works full-time for the State of Ohio, supporting the disability community through outreach and education, with a focus on financial literacy and promoting the benefits of STABLE Account. In his professional role, he serves on both the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council and the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council. Since 2016, Nate has utilized his STABLE Account to save for significant milestones, including purchasing an accessible vehicle, making a down payment on a home, and planning for retirement. In his spare time, he enjoys fostering connections, staying updated listening to the latest podcasts about technology, and traveling with his family and his girlfriend, Kelsi.

Travis, a resident of Pickaway County, Ohio, joined the STABLE Account program as an early participant in 2016. He currently works in local government, where he assists with outreach and support services, helping to connect individuals with the resources they need. Recently, Travis fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing land and building a wheelchair-accessible home. This significant achievement was made possible through the financial resources he accessed from his STABLE account. Travis's journey stands as a powerful testament to how financial empowerment can pave the way for personal goals and inspire others in the community. In his spare time, Travis is an avid collector of watches and enjoys traveling to new places.

Jeff, a resident of Adams County, OH, proudly uses his STABLE account to cover housing, basic living expenses, and purchases for his cat. An active member of his community, Jeff enjoys collecting music cassettes, playing games, and spending time with friends.

Kyle, a resident of Columbus, OH, serves as the staff photographer for the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio. His passion for photography inspired him to start his own photography business, which has boosted his creativity and confidence, supporting him to connect with many people in his community. Kyle utilizes his STABLE account to cover expenses related to his business, housing, and travel.

JoRita, a resident of Toledo, OH, has been a lifelong champion and advocate for the disability community. As a former teacher, founder of People First of Toledo, and current Chair of The Arc of Ohio Board of Trustees, she has made a significant impact within Ohio and is a pillar within her community. In 2023, JoRita received the Lifetime Achievement in Advocacy award from the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities. As a STABLE Account ambassador, she has used her account to cover housing, furniture, and everyday expenses that improve her life.

Jenny, a resident of Worthington, OH, works in local government and has used her STABLE account to furnish her apartment, travel, and cover medical expenses. She played a key role in advocating for and testifying in support of the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, leading to its passage in 2014. Since 2016, Jenny has been an active and vocal member of the STABLE Account Advisory Board, where she continues to influence important decisions and promote awareness of the benefits of the program. In her spare time, Jenny loves to spend time with her friends and family, participate in athletics for the Special Olympics, and plan exciting travel adventures.

As one of the earliest employer partners of STABLE Account, UCO Industries provides savings and investment opportunities for their employees. In 2018, UCO Industries launched an employee savings program that allows staff to choose between a 4% match in a 401(k) account or a 4% contribution to a STABLE Account, depending on which option aligns best with their long-term financial goals. This initiative, lead by CEO Dave Amerine, was groundbreaking, making UCO Industries the first employer in the United States to directly promote STABLE Accounts to employees with a company contribution.

Danielle and Chelsea, members of the UCO Industries team, are proud to take advantage of the direct deposit feature that helps them achieve their financial goals. They both enjoy using their STABLE Accounts for basic living expenses and traveling!