In March 2020, the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) clarified that food is considered a “qualified disability expense” for ABLE accounts.

Available in section B(9) of the SSA’s updated ABLE Program Operations Manual System (POMS), this official guidance provides reassurance to ABLEnow account owners that qualified disability expenses can be broadly construed to include a wide range of expenses that maintain or improve health, independence or quality of life.

An ABLEnow account may be used to pay for the account owner’s groceries, food delivery, restaurant meals, takeout and more.

Updated April 2024