People with Cerebral Palsy in Florida can get federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what changed in 2025.
To get federal disability benefits in Florida, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) rules. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a qualifying work history and a disability that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and limited resources, and a disability that meets SSA medical standards. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. This means you cannot earn more than these amounts and still qualify for SSDI or SSI. Children with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for SSI if their family income and resources are low enough and their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations [6].
In Florida, the Division of Disability Determinations makes medical eligibility decisions for federal disability programs. If you have Cerebral Palsy, you must show that your condition limits your ability to work and live independently. Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for people with developmental disabilities, including Cerebral Palsy, which can help pay for services like personal care, therapy, and assistive technology. To qualify for these waivers, you must meet both medical and financial criteria set by the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD). Children with Cerebral Palsy may also get SSI if their family meets Florida's income and resource limits [3][5].
Florida’s ABLE United program lets people with Cerebral Palsy open ABLE accounts. These accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for things like medical care, education, housing, and transportation. To open an account, visit the ABLE United website and follow the steps to apply [4].
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI and SSI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If you earn more than these amounts, you may not qualify for benefits. For SSI, there are also limits on countable income and resources. Children with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for SSI if their family meets Florida’s income and resource limits [6][5].
If your income, work, or living situation changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. For Medicaid waivers, report changes to the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities. Use the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide to learn how work affects your benefits [4][6].
The main benefits are SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. SSI and SSDI provide monthly payments. Medicaid waivers help pay for home and community-based services. ABLE accounts let you save money without losing benefits.
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records, proof of income, and personal documents. The application asks for details about your condition, work history, and finances.
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If you earn more than these amounts, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI.
Yes, children with Cerebral Palsy may qualify for SSI if their family meets Florida’s income and resource limits and their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations.
Florida Medicaid waivers help pay for home and community-based services for people with Cerebral Palsy. Services may include personal care, therapy, and assistive technology. To qualify, you must meet medical and financial criteria set by the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities.
Florida’s ABLE United program lets people with Cerebral Palsy open ABLE accounts. These accounts let you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for things like medical care, education, housing, and transportation.
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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If your income, work, or living situation changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. For Medicaid waivers, report changes to the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities.
The approval process can take several months. The Social Security Administration reviews your medical records and other documents. If denied, you can appeal the decision.
Yes, you can work and still get SSI or SSDI if your earnings are below the SGA limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals.
Families can get help from the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Medicaid waivers, and the Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Program Resource Center. These programs provide services and support for children with Cerebral Palsy.
