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Florida • Sensory
People with low vision in Florida may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs for medical coverage and work support. In 2025, new rules and higher income limits make it easier to work and keep benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with low vision, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your vision loss must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work. For 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for blind individuals is $2,700 per month. If you earn more than this, you generally cannot be considered disabled for SSDI or SSI. For SSI, your income and resources must also be limited. Children with low vision may qualify if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations and their family’s income is within limits [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01].
Florida does not have a separate state disability program, but it does offer support through Medicaid, special needs shelters, and new programs for working individuals with disabilities. In 2025, Florida will launch a Medicaid buy-in program for people with disabilities who work but earn too much for traditional Medicaid. This program will adjust premiums and cost-sharing based on income, making coverage more affordable for those who want to work. Florida also provides resources for people with low vision, including assistive technology and special needs registries for emergencies [flhouse.gov, 2025-01-01; floridahealth.gov, 2025-01-01].
ABLE accounts let people with low vision save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Florida residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01; nationaldisabilityinstitute.org, 2025-01-01].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to SSA and Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and report them as soon as possible. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01; floridahealth.gov, 2025-01-01].
Florida is launching a Medicaid buy-in program for working individuals with disabilities in 2025. This lets you earn more and still get affordable medical coverage. Watch for updates from the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA).
Yes, if your low vision is severe enough to prevent you from working and you meet the SSA’s disability criteria. The 2025 SGA limit for blind individuals is $2,700/month. You must also meet income and resource limits for SSI [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01].
It’s a new 2025 program that lets people with disabilities who work but earn too much for traditional Medicaid buy into Medicaid. Premiums and cost-sharing are based on income, making coverage more affordable for those who want to work [flhouse.gov, 2025-01-01].
Gather medical records and work history, then apply for SSI or SSDI online, by phone, or at a local SSA office. For Medicaid, apply through ACCESS Florida or your local agency [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01; floridahealth.gov, 2025-01-01].
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit ($2,700/month for blind individuals in 2025). The new Medicaid buy-in program also lets you work and keep medical coverage [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01; flhouse.gov, 2025-01-01].
Florida offers special needs shelters, assistive technology programs, and resources through the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities. Register for special needs shelters if you depend on medical equipment [floridahealth.gov, 2025-01-01].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Report any changes in income or health to SSA and Medicaid. You may qualify for work incentives that let you keep benefits while you work. The new Medicaid buy-in program also helps you keep coverage [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01; flhouse.gov, 2025-01-01].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for education, housing, and transportation [nationaldisabilityinstitute.org, 2025-01-01].
You can appeal within 60 days. Gather more medical evidence and ask for a hearing. You may want to get help from a disability advocate or attorney [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01].
Yes, if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations and their family’s income is within limits. The 2025 SGA limit for blind children is $2,700/month [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01].
Report changes in income or health to SSA and Medicaid as soon as possible. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes [ssa.gov, 2025-01-01; floridahealth.gov, 2025-01-01].
