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Florida • Neurological/Developmental
People with Down Syndrome in Florida may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and important 2025 changes.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a disability that prevents substantial work for at least 12 months and enough work credits from recent employment. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on disability, limited income, and resources. Both programs require a medical determination of disability, which for Down Syndrome is generally met if the condition causes marked and severe functional limitations [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earnings above this may affect SSDI eligibility [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
Children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family's income and resources are within limits. The monthly SSI payment in 2025 is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple [nationaldisabilityinstitute.org, 2025-11-05].
In Florida, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the Division of Disability Determinations, which works with the Social Security Administration. Florida residents with Down Syndrome may also qualify for Medicaid waivers, which provide home and community-based services for those with developmental disabilities. These waivers help cover costs for personal care, therapy, and support services [floridahealth.gov, 2025-11-05].
Florida's Medicaid waiver programs, such as the Developmental Disabilities Waiver, have specific eligibility criteria, including a diagnosis of a developmental disability and a need for services that would otherwise require institutional care. The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) manages these waivers and can help families apply [floridahealth.gov, 2025-11-05].
ABLE accounts allow individuals with Down Syndrome to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. In Florida, you can open an ABLE account through the Florida ABLE Program. Contributions are limited, but funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses [floridahealth.gov, 2025-11-05].
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration and APD to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. Keep records of all changes and communications [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
People with Down Syndrome in Florida may qualify for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. These programs provide financial support, health coverage, and services for daily living.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and proof of income.
In 2025, the maximum monthly SSI payment is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple. Income and resources must be within limits to qualify.
Yes, children with Down Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their family's income and resources are within limits. The child must have marked and severe functional limitations.
Medicaid waivers in Florida provide home and community-based services for people with developmental disabilities, including Down Syndrome. These waivers cover personal care, therapy, and support services.
Contact the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) to request an application and assessment. You may need to provide additional documentation of disability and need for services.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official sources for the most current eligibility and application rules.
An ABLE account allows individuals with Down Syndrome to save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. You can open an account through the Florida ABLE Program.
In 2025, SSDI benefits will increase by 2.5% due to COLA, and the SGA limit will rise to $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals.
Yes, it is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or medical status to the Social Security Administration and APD to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility.
You can get help from the Social Security Administration, the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities, and local nonprofit organizations that support people with disabilities.
