People in Florida with mobility impairment can receive federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, your mobility impairment must be severe enough to stop you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. For 2025, substantial work is earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) [6].
Both programs require medical proof that your mobility impairment causes marked and severe functional limitations [4].
In Florida, you may also qualify for state programs if you have a mobility impairment. The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) helps people with significant disabilities get services like home care, therapy, and assistive technology [1].
Florida’s Medicaid waivers, such as the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, can help you stay at home instead of in a nursing facility. You must meet both medical and financial criteria to qualify [1].
If you need help during emergencies, register for Florida’s special needs shelter registry. This is important if you depend on electricity or need transportation to evacuate [1].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for expenses like housing, education, and transportation. Florida has its own ABLE program, and you can learn more at the official ABLE website [3].
Always report changes in your income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to the Social Security Administration or your state agency as soon as possible [3].
If you depend on electricity or need transportation to evacuate, register for Florida’s special needs shelter registry. This can help you get the support you need during emergencies [1].
SSI is for people with disabilities and limited income and resources. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both provide monthly payments, but eligibility rules are different [2].
You can apply for Medicaid online at ACCESS Florida or in person at your local Department of Children and Families office. You will need to provide proof of income, disability, and residency [3].
Yes, but there are limits. For 2025, you can earn up to $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) without losing benefits. There are work incentives to help you keep benefits while you try to work [6].
A Medicaid waiver lets people with disabilities get services at home or in the community instead of in a nursing facility. You must meet medical and financial criteria to qualify [1].
If you need help during emergencies, register for Florida’s special needs shelter registry. This is important if you depend on electricity or need transportation to evacuate. Contact your local emergency management office for details [1].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for expenses like housing, education, and transportation [3].
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 you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Always report changes in your income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments [3].
Yes, Florida offers transportation services for people with disabilities. Contact the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities or your local transit authority for details [1].
During a government shutdown, SSI and SSDI payments usually continue. But new applications, appeals, and some services may be delayed. Disability Rights Florida can help you find resources during a shutdown [5].
The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology can help you get assistive devices and technology. They offer resources and support for people with disabilities [1].
