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Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced the launch of the U.S. Bank® Focus Card — a new prepaid debit card for Texas ABLE Program account owners. The Focus Card allows Texas ABLE account owners to pay for qualified disability expenses anywhere nationwide that accepts Visa debit cards. These expenses can include housing, transportation, and medical as well as basic living expenses like food and clothing.
“This is a powerful tool that gives Texas ABLE account owners a convenient new way to use the funds in their accounts,” Hegar said. “This increased flexibility will help account holders manage their personal finances and become more financially independent.”
The Focus Card is a reloadable prepaid debit card funded by withdrawals from the Texas ABLE account. Account owners can transfer money from the account to the card and use it when needed. Balances on the card are covered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
Established by the Texas Legislature and administered by the Texas Comptroller’s office, the Texas ABLE Program allows Texans with disabilities to save in a tax-advantaged account while preserving eligibility for certain means-tested state and federal programs. Eligible individuals can save up to $15,000 a year, not to exceed a lifetime maximum of $370,000. Funds up to $100,000 generally do not count against eligibility for government assistance or benefits, however exceptions do apply. Contact your disability benefits advisor with any questions on how participation may impact you.
Texas ABLE is open to eligible Texans who experience the onset of a disability before the age of 26 and are entitled to Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Insurance benefits or have a condition on the Social Security Administration’s list of Compassionate Allowances Conditions or a physician’s diagnosis of a qualifying condition. Check out one of GCPD's previous webinars for more information on ABLE basics.
Texas ABLE account owners can log into their account at any time and request a Focus Card on the “Profile” tab. New enrollees can request a card at the time of enrollment. Beneficiaries of the account can request a card for themselves, while authorized legal representatives on the account can either request a card for themselves or the beneficiary. Visit the Comptroller’s website for more information about the Focus Card.
There is no cost to enroll in the Focus Card Program, but some fees may be assessed based on how the card is used. Please refer to the Fee Schedule for details regarding fees associated with the Focus Card Program. Account balance and transaction history are available anytime via the U.S. Bank Mobile App or online at usbankfocus.com.
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