Santa Fe, NM – This Veterans Day (November 11), and as we conclude National Family Caregivers Month, the New Mexico State Treasurer's
Office is highlighting critical upcoming changes that will significantly expand access to financial security for veterans and other Americans with disabilities.
The New Mexico State Treasurer's Office worked with Representative Elizabeth "Liz" Thomson to draft legislation that would align state law with the federal Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Age
Adjustment Act, passed by Congress in 2022. For New Mexico residents, the 2024 New Mexico Legislature passed House Bill 98 (HB 98). This state legislation expands access to the New Mexico State Treasurer's Achieving a Better Life Experience (NM STABLE) Program,
New Mexico's official ABLE program.
This landmark federal legislation will increase the qualifying age of disability onset from 26 years old to 46 years old. This expansion will enable millions of veterans and civilians who acquire disabilities
later in life due to injury, illness, or trauma to open STABLE accounts. These specialized savings and investment accounts allow individuals to save money and cover disability-related expenses without jeopardizing vital benefits like Social Security or Medicaid.
HB 98 also prevents the state from seeking estate recovery payments from an account or its proceeds for benefits provided to the beneficiary of the account. This protection went into effect on July 1, 2024.
NM STABLE accounts are available now for those who meet current eligibility requirements. Thousands more of New Mexicans will qualify starting January 1, 2026, when the new age threshold takes effect.
"This Veterans Day, we honor the courage and sacrifice of our veterans who have given so much to protect our freedoms. For those whose dedication resulted in disabilities later in life, we have a profound
responsibility to provide meaningful support. The expansion of the NM STABLE Program is a crucial step in fulfilling that duty, offering these heroes the opportunity to achieve financial stability and peace of mind as they continue to live with dignity and
security," said State Treasurer Laura M. Montoya.
November is also National Family Caregivers Month—a time to honor and support the family members who provide care, strength, and stability for loved ones living with disabilities or health challenges. The
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers valuable tools, guidance, and self-care resources to help caregivers feel supported year-round. Families are encouraged to explore these resources and share them with someone who may benefit.
For more information about NM STABLE accounts and the upcoming eligibility changes, visit
For caregiver resources, visit The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Family Caregivers Month page at
