The ABLEnow Checking Account gives you easy, everyday access to your money so you can pay for qualified disability expenses.
This option is provided through Fifth Third Bank. When you choose the Checking Account, you get access to a debit card and cash withdrawals.
Because ABLEnow partners with Fifth Third Bank, this account has its own login, account number, and routing number.
Below is a simple overview of how the Checking Account works. For complete details and information about fees, read the ABLEnow Program Description.
Debit Cards
You will only have access to a debit card if you choose the Checking Account option.
If you have not selected this option yet, you will not receive a debit card. You may change your portfolio options if you’re interested in the Checking Account and ordering a debit card.
Who receives the debit card?
Fifth Third Bank mails the debit card to the person who manages the account, and this depends on how the account is set up:
- If the account owner manages their own account: the account owner
- If an authorized individual manages an adult’s account and the adult has legal capacity: the account owner
- If an authorized individual manages an account for a minor or an adult without legal capacity: the authorized individual
When the debit card arrives, follow the activation steps printed on the card.
Online Account Monitoring & Support
Once your debit card is activated, you can call Fifth Third Bank to set up your online access.
With online access, you can:
- Check activity anytime
- Get real‑time alerts
- View account numbers
- Look at monthly statements
- See transaction history
For more information or to download the mobile app, visit www.53.com/ABLE
Contributions
You can’t contribute directly to your Fifth Third Bank account. Instead, you make your contribution to your Checking Account option through ABLEnow and the secure online portal. The money then moves to your Fifth Third Bank Checking Account where it becomes available for you to use.
Withdrawals
You can use your Checking Account in several convenient ways:
- Set up electronic payments to a business or service (if they accept this type of payment). Use your Fifth Third Bank account and routing numbers for these payments.
- Use your debit card at more than 40,000 fee‑free MoneyPass ATMs nationwide, at Fifth Third Bank branches, or for everyday purchases.
- If you prefer to pay by check, you can order checkbooks through Fifth Third ($6 fee).
Information updated as of April 2026.