What is the process to use California's ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) account to save money without losing my SSI benefits?

You can use a California ABLE (CalABLE) account to save money above the $2,000 limit without losing your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The account allows you and others to contribute funds that you can then spend on qualified disability-related expenses. Here is the process to set up and use a CalABLE account: Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility Before opening an account, you must confirm you are an "eligible individual." This means your significant disability began before you turned 26. You must meet this age requirement and also meet at least one of these conditions: you are already eligible for SSI or SSDI due to your disability, or you can get a signed "disability certification" from a qualified physician stating your condition meets the required severity. Step 2: Open Your Account Online Go to the official CalABLE website at calable.ca.gov to start the enrollment process. You will need to provide personal information, including your name, address, Social Security Number, and the basis for your eligibility (e.g., you receive SSI). The process is done entirely online and is designed to be straightforward. Step 3: Contribute Funds You, your family, or friends can contribute money to your account. For 2024, the total annual contribution limit from all sources is $18,000. Do not exceed this limit. You can set up one-time or recurring contributions directly from a bank account. Step 4: Spend Funds on Qualified Expenses You must use the money for "Qualified Disability Expenses" (QDEs). These are costs related to your disability that help you maintain or improve your health, independence, or quality of life. Examples include housing, transportation, education, healthcare, and assistive technology. Keep detailed records and receipts for all your expenditures. Important Details and Nuances: The first $100,000 saved in your CalABLE account does not count against your SSI resource limit. If your account balance exceeds $100,000, your SSI payments will be suspended but not terminated. Your benefits will resume once the balance falls below the $100,000 threshold. Funds withdrawn for housing costs must be spent in the same calendar month they are withdrawn, or SSI may count them as a resource the next month. Warnings and Limitations: If you use funds for non-qualified expenses, the earnings portion of that withdrawal will be taxed and subject to a 10% penalty. More importantly, the Social Security Administration may count it as a resource. Upon the beneficiary's death, funds left in the account may be used to reimburse the state for any Medi-Cal benefits received after the account was opened. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, especially those involving estate planning or multiple public benefits, you should consult with a qualified California attorney.