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Florida • Sensory
People who are hard of hearing in Florida may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and specialized support programs. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and medical documentation. This guide covers how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your benefits.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Florida, you must meet federal eligibility requirements. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and now have a disability that prevents them from working. SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older. For 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If your earnings are above this limit, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI. Both programs require medical documentation of your disability, including hearing loss that meets Social Security's criteria for disability. For children, the same SGA limits apply, and family income and resources are considered for SSI eligibility[5][6].
In Florida, the Division of Disability Determinations makes the medical eligibility decision for Social Security disability programs. If you are hard of hearing, you must provide medical documentation from a licensed audiologist or physician showing the severity of your hearing loss. Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those who are hard of hearing, which can provide access to hearing aids, assistive technology, and other services. The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) and the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST) are key resources for people with disabilities in Florida. These agencies can help you understand your eligibility for state programs and connect you with local services[2][4].
ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. In Florida, you can open an ABLE account to save money for disability-related expenses without affecting your eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. The Florida ABLE program is managed by the Florida ABLE Program. You can learn more about ABLE accounts and how to apply at the Florida ABLE Program website[4].
For 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI and SSI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. For SSI, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. These limits may change each year based on inflation and other factors[5][6].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you may have to repay the overpayment. It is important to report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration. You can learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes at the Social Security Administration website[4].
Contact the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities or the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology for help with the application process and connecting with local services.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes and now have a disability that prevents them from working. SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 or older. Both programs require medical documentation of your disability[3][4].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at the Social Security Administration website, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need to provide medical records and financial information[6].
You need medical records from a licensed audiologist or physician showing the severity of your hearing loss. This should include audiograms and a description of how your hearing loss affects your daily life[2][5].
For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. For SSI, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple[5][6].
Florida offers Medicaid waivers, the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology, and other programs for people with disabilities, including those who are hard of hearing[2][4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for specific guidance.
If you are eligible for Medicaid, you may be able to get a hearing aid through a Medicaid waiver or other state program. Contact the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities or the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology for more information[2][4].
You can work while receiving SSDI or SSI, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. If you earn more than the SGA limit, you may lose your benefits. There are work incentives that can help you return to work without losing benefits[3][6].
ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. In Florida, you can open an ABLE account through the Florida ABLE Program. You can learn more about ABLE accounts and how to apply at the Florida ABLE Program website[4].
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The Social Security Administration and state agencies can provide information on the appeals process[6].
You can find support services through the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities, the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology, and other state agencies. These agencies can help you connect with local services and resources[2][4].
