Beyond the Job: A Pathway to Financial Independence

Posted on by Pathfinder
A person seated in a wheelchair wearing a mustard-colored sweater and dark pants is positioned next to a large orange piggy bank with the logo “ABLE TN: Achieving a Better Life Experience” on its side. The person is holding a gold coin with a dollar sign, and two additional gold coins float nearby. Behind them, three large white arrows point upward, symbolizing growth or progress. In the upper left corner, there is a compass graphic with the text “Tennessee Disability Pathfinder.” The background is a muted gray tone, creating a professional and financial planning theme. This image was created using AI by S.Adams-Avery

You’ve landed the job, so what’s next?

Employment is a major milestone, but the journey doesn’t stop there. The next step is building financial independence, which gives you control, stability, and the ability to plan for your future. For Tennesseans with disabilities, opportunities like ABLE TN accounts are opening doors to smarter saving and long-term financial success.

ABLE TN, administered by the Tennessee Department of Treasury, is a savings and investment program designed specifically for individuals with disabilities. It allows eligible account holders to save money for disability-related expenses in a tax-advantaged account, without jeopardizing access to critical benefits such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These accounts can be used for a wide range of needs, including housing, education, transportation, healthcare, and employment supports.

Big News for 2026: Expanded Eligibility

Starting January 1, 2026, eligibility for ABLE TN will expand significantly. Under the ABLE Age Adjustment Act, individuals whose disability began before age 46, up from the previous cutoff of age 26, will now qualify to open an account. This change is expected to benefit thousands of additional Tennesseans, offering new opportunities to build financial security and plan for the future.

Financial assistance continues to be one of the most frequently reported needs in Tennessee Disability Pathfinder data. With the expanded eligibility and increased awareness, ABLE TN accounts are poised to become a key resource for individuals and families seeking greater financial stability. Account holders will be able to:

  • Save up to $100,000 without impacting SSI eligibility.
  • Use funds for a wide range of expenses: housing, education, transportation, healthcare, employment support, and more.
  • Grow savings tax-free and maintain control over their financial future.

Tennessee Disability Pathfinder is uniquely positioned to help achieve the Treasury’s ambitious goal: having ABLE account owners in every county. With its statewide reach and personalized support, Pathfinder can guide families, educators, and professionals to the right resources, ensuring no eligible Tennessean is left behind. Visit www.tnpathfinder.org to explore ABLE TN resources, connect with financial literacy tools, and find community-based supports that align with employment and financial goals.

As employment opportunities grow, financial empowerment must follow. ABLE TN accounts are more than just savings tools. They are a gateway to independence, dignity, and long-term success.. With thoughtful planning and the right support, every Tennessean with a disability can take meaningful steps toward a financially secure future.

Let’s make sure every Tennessean with a disability has the chance to work, save, and thrive.