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Florida • Rare/Genetic
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI in Florida. State programs offer additional support for home care, Medicaid waivers, and emergency services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), you must show that your condition causes marked and severe functional limitations. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and must not earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. EDS is not automatically listed, but if symptoms match a listing or prevent substantial work, you may qualify. Medical evidence is required to prove your disability.
In Florida, adults with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may qualify for state programs if they have permanent physical or mental limitations that restrict daily activities. The Adult Protective Services (APS) program supports adults aged 18–59 with disabilities who need help to live independently. Eligibility requires a permanent limitation that affects normal activities. Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help cover care costs. The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) provides case management and support for those with qualifying disabilities. Special needs registries are available for those who rely on medical equipment during emergencies.
Step 1: Collect medical evidence, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment history for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
Step 2: Review federal eligibility for SSI or SSDI. SSI is for those with limited income and resources; SSDI requires a work history. Use the SSI Income Estimator to check if you qualify.
Step 3: Apply for federal benefits online at SSA.gov or in person at a Social Security office. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 for help.
Step 4: For Florida state programs, contact the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) to apply for Medicaid waivers and home care services. You may be placed on a waiting list if programs are full.
Step 5: If you need emergency support, register with Florida’s special needs registry for disaster assistance.
Step 6: Report any changes in income, work, or medical status to avoid overpayments.
Step 7: Seek help from local nonprofits or legal aid if you need assistance with applications or appeals.
Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities: Apply for Services
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For those who cannot work due to disability and have a work history. Payments are based on past earnings.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For those with limited income and resources. Payments help cover basic needs.
Medicare: Available after 24 months of SSDI.
Medicaid: Available for those with low income, including SSI recipients.
Work Incentives: Programs like Ticket to Work let you test employment without losing benefits.
Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD): Provides Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, case management, and support for adults with qualifying disabilities.
Adult Protective Services (APS): Offers case management and in-home care subsidies for adults aged 18–59 with disabilities who need help to live independently.
Special Needs Registry: For those who rely on medical equipment or need evacuation assistance during emergencies.
Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology: Helps with assistive devices and technology.
Florida Centers on Autism and Related Disabilities: Provides resources and support for those with disabilities.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Florida, you can open an ABLE United account. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Contributions are limited each year, but earnings grow tax-free.
SSDI: No resource limit, but earnings must be below the SGA limit ($1,620/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals, $2,700 for blind individuals).
SSI: Resource limit is $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples. Income limits change yearly.
Medicaid Waivers: Income and asset limits vary by program.
You must report changes in income, work, or medical status to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much, you may have to repay the excess. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. Keep records of all reports and communications.
Contact the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities or your local Area Agency on Aging for help with applications and appeals.
Register with Florida’s special needs registry if you rely on medical equipment or need evacuation assistance during disasters.
Yes, if your EDS causes marked and severe functional limitations that prevent you from working. You must provide medical evidence to prove your disability to the Social Security Administration or Florida agencies.
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Earning above this may affect your SSDI eligibility.
Contact the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) to apply for Medicaid waivers. You may need to provide medical records and proof of income. Programs may have waiting lists.
Florida’s Adult Protective Services offers case management and in-home care subsidies for adults aged 18–59 with disabilities. Services help with daily living and may include financial assistance for care costs.
Yes, through work incentives like the Ticket to Work program. You can test employment without immediately losing benefits, as long as your earnings stay below the SGA limit.
Register with Florida’s special needs registry through the Department of Health. This helps ensure you get evacuation and medical support during disasters.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official sources or a benefits expert for your specific situation.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Florida offers ABLE United accounts for residents with qualifying disabilities.
Yes, report any changes in income, work, or medical status to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person to the Social Security Administration.
Children with EDS may qualify for SSI or Medicaid waivers. The Agency for Persons with Disabilities and local school districts can help with services and support.
You can appeal the decision. Get help from a disability advocate or legal aid to file an appeal and provide additional medical evidence.
