With Mark Raymond, Jr. and John Finch
Navigating resources and programming for individuals living with Fragile X syndrome can be overwhelming. Eligibility for many available supports is based on a family’s income, assets, and resources. In 2014, due to the fierce advocacy efforts of many, including the Fragile X community, the Stephen Beck Jr. Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act was passed. ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings, investment, and spending accounts for individuals with disabilities that can be established without affecting their eligibility for certain benefit programs.
During this webinar, Mark and John presented an overview of ABLE accounts, the benefits of having them, examples of qualified disability expenses, and how to find the most appropriate ABLE account provider for you. We concluded the webinar with an extensive Q & A session.
NFXF Webinar Series: Financially Empowering the Fragile X Community Through ABLE Accounts
Additional resources and controls for this video are accessible just below the video: play/pause, volume, subtitles, view transcript, watch as picture-in-picture, or in full screen mode.
About the Webinar
Discover the empowering world of ABLE financial tools designed to support individuals with disabilities in fostering financial stability while safeguarding their essential benefits. Here’s a recap of the insights shared by Mark and John from the webinar:
- 8 million Americans are eligible for an ABLE account, yet only 2 percent have taken advantage of this opportunity.
- Individuals whose disability began before age 26 are eligible for an ABLE account. Starting in January 2026, the eligibility age will extend up to 46.
- When using funds from an ABLE Account, expenses should directly relate to the individual’s disability, and help maintain or improve their health, independence, or quality of life. For more details, check out the link they provided.
- Most ABLE accounts offer multiple investment options. An individual can choose the option that suites your needs best.
- Research ABLE programs to determine what option is most appropriate for you and your loved one.
The establishment of ABLE accounts is one of the most impactful public policies for people with disabilities since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. Talking with your ABLE account provider about your questions on things like how the plan works, fees, how much you can contribute, tax benefits, investment options, and qualified expenses is important. They can help guide you through it all!
Learn More About the Presenters
Mark Raymond Jr., National Outreach Lead, ABLE today
Mark Raymond, Jr. is the CEO & Founder of The Split Second Foundation, an organization committed to breaking barriers for people with disabilities. Mark’s life changed in a split second when a tragic accident left him a C-5 quadriplegic. That tick of the clock will forever influence who he is, pushing him to advocate for others.
Mark has a deep-rooted history of serving the community. From renaming historic streets and landmarks in New Orleans to creating a more accessible and robust rehabilitative health infrastructure in the Gulf South, Mark strives for the advancement of those most disadvantaged.
Mark also serves as the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners for the Regional Transit Authority in New Orleans.
John Finch, Director of ABLE United
At the Florida Prepaid College Board John Finch serves as the Director of ABLE United – Florida’s ABLE Program. John joined Florida Prepaid in 2016 to launch ABLE United and manages its continued success having helped over 10,000 Floridians save over $90 million dollars for qualified disability expenses. John also serves as the Treasurer for the ABLE Savings Plan Network, a network comprised of ABLE Program Administrators around the country. Previously he served ten years in the disability field at The Arc of Florida in various capacities – from establishing a statewide dental program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to chief operating officer. John resides in Tallahassee with his wife and three active boys, serves as an Elder at his local church, and enjoys playing board games in his spare time.
Additional Resources
Below are the links to resources discussed and a recent webinar:
about
Missy Zolecki
Missy joined NFXF team in 2018 after being an active volunteer since 2010. Missy organized several fundraisers and educational workshops while serving in her volunteer role. Missy is the mother of three children. Her eldest son, Matt, lives with Fragile X syndrome. Prior to joining the NFXF team, Missy had worked as a nurse for more than 20 years. She enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.