People in Florida with amputation may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs and Medicaid waivers. Eligibility depends on medical status, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your case.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with amputation, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) medical and work criteria. For SSDI, you need a qualifying work history and a severe impairment that prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA). For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. In 2025, SGA is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Amputation of both hands, one or both legs, or certain other criteria may automatically qualify under SSA’s Listing of Impairments. If not, you may still qualify if your amputation causes marked and severe functional limitations.
SSA Disability Qualifications (accessed 2025-11-05)
In Florida, people with amputation may qualify for state programs in addition to federal benefits. The Florida Department of Health’s Division of Disability Determinations makes medical eligibility decisions for federal disability programs. Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with personal care, assistive technology, and other supports. The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) provides services for people with certain disabilities, including amputation if it meets eligibility criteria. Special needs registries and disaster preparedness resources are available for those who are medically dependent.
Florida Department of Health - Disability Determinations (accessed 2025-11-05) Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (accessed 2025-11-05)
SSA Disability Application (accessed 2025-11-05) Florida Medicaid Waivers (accessed 2025-11-05)
SSA Benefits Overview (accessed 2025-11-05)
Florida Medicaid Waivers (accessed 2025-11-05) Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (accessed 2025-11-05) Florida Department of Health - Disability Programs (accessed 2025-11-05)
ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. In Florida, you can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year (2025), and the account balance does not count toward SSI resource limits up to $100,000. ABLE accounts can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other disability-related expenses.
Florida ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-05)
For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earnings above these limits may affect eligibility for SSDI and SSI. SSI has additional income and resource limits: $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Some income is not counted, such as the first $20 of most income and the first $65 of earned income plus half of the remainder.
SSA SGA Limits 2025 (accessed 2025-11-05)
It is important to report any changes in income, resources, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and affect future benefits. Report changes promptly to SSA and state agencies. Keep records of all communications and payments.
SSA Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-05)
Always report changes in income, resources, or medical status to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility.
Yes, amputation can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it meets SSA medical criteria and you meet work or income requirements. Automatic qualification may apply for certain amputations, or you may qualify based on functional limitations.
For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals and $2,700/month for blind individuals. Earnings above these limits may affect eligibility for SSDI and SSI.
Apply for Medicaid waivers through the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities or your local health department. You may need to meet medical and financial eligibility criteria.
There is a 5-month waiting period for SSDI payments and a 24-month waiting period for Medicare, except for ALS and ESRD, which have no waiting period.
You can work, but your earnings must not exceed the SGA limit. Work incentives and trial work periods may allow you to test your ability to work without losing benefits.
Florida offers Medicaid waivers, special needs registries, and support services through the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities and other agencies.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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Report any changes in income, resources, or medical status promptly to SSA and state agencies. Keep records of all communications and payments.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. It can help pay for qualified disability expenses without affecting eligibility for means-tested benefits.
If you qualify for both, you may receive payments from both programs. SSDI is based on work history, SSI on income and resources. Payments are coordinated to avoid duplication.
Register for special needs services through your local health department or emergency management agency. This helps ensure you receive assistance during emergencies or evacuations.
