Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Benefits in Florida

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Florida, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working at Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) levels for at least 12 months. For 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is considered a disabling condition if it causes severe functional limitations that stop you from working. You must also meet work credit requirements for SSDI or income/resource limits for SSI. Family members may also qualify for dependent benefits under SSDI.

• Medical eligibility is based on SSA’s Blue Book or functional limitations.
• Work credits depend on age and recent employment history.
• SSI is for those with limited income and resources.
• Both programs require regular reporting of changes in health, income, or work.

Source: SSA, 2025 SGA limits and eligibility rules [Accessed: 2025-11-05]

In Florida, the Division of Disability Determinations reviews medical evidence to decide if you meet federal disability standards for SSDI or SSI. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is evaluated based on how it limits your ability to work and perform daily activities. Florida does not have a separate state disability program, but residents may qualify for additional state services like Medicaid waivers, housing support, and vocational rehabilitation. These programs can help with medical care, assistive technology, and independent living. Always report changes in your condition or income to avoid benefit interruptions.

• Florida uses federal rules for disability determination.
• State agencies help with Medicaid, housing, and special needs registries.
• Local health departments and disability councils offer support and resources.
• Some programs require separate applications.

Source: Florida Department of Health, Disability Determinations [Accessed: 2025-11-05]

• Gather medical records and work history.
• Check if you meet SGA limits for 2025 ($1,620/month for non-blind, $2,700 for blind).
• Visit SSA.gov to start an online application for SSDI or SSI.
• Contact Florida’s Division of Disability Determinations for help with medical evidence.
• Report any changes in health or income to SSA.
• Explore state programs for extra support.

• Step 1: Collect all medical records, including diagnosis, treatment history, and doctor’s notes for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.
• Step 2: Review your work history and Social Security earnings to see if you have enough work credits for SSDI.
• Step 3: Check if your income and resources are below SSI limits.
• Step 4: Start your application online at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to apply by phone or schedule an in-person appointment.
• Step 5: Florida’s Division of Disability Determinations will review your medical evidence and may request more information.
• Step 6: Respond promptly to any requests for additional documents or exams.
• Step 7: If denied, you can appeal within 60 days.
• Step 8: Once approved, report any changes in health, work, or income to avoid overpayments.
• Step 9: Apply for state programs like Medicaid waivers or housing support if needed.
• Step 10: Use local resources for ongoing support and advocacy.

Source: SSA, How to Apply for Disability [Accessed: 2025-11-05]

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for those who worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to disability.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Needs-based payments for those with limited income and resources.
• Medicare: Health coverage after 24 months of SSDI (exceptions for ALS and end-stage renal disease).
• Medicaid: Health coverage for those with low income, often available with SSI.
• Work Incentives: Programs to help you return to work without losing benefits.

Source: SSA, Benefits for People with Disabilities [Accessed: 2025-11-05]

Florida offers several programs to support people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis:

• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Home and Community-Based Services for long-term care, including personal care, respite, and assistive technology.
• Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD): Case management, residential support, and employment services.
• Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST): Help with assistive devices and technology.
• Special Needs Registry: For emergency preparedness and evacuation support.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Job training and employment support.
• Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Program Resource Center: Educational resources and support.
• Florida Centers on Autism and Related Disabilities: Support for those with related conditions.
• Florida Developmental Disabilities Council: Advocacy and resources.
• Florida Coordinating Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Support for communication needs.

Source: Florida Department of Health, People with Disabilities [Accessed: 2025-11-05]

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 education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Contributions are limited each year, and there are state tax benefits. ABLE accounts help with financial independence and planning for the future.

Source: ABLE United, Florida ABLE Program [Accessed: 2025-11-05]

For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. SSI has strict income and resource limits. If you earn more than SGA, you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI. Some work incentives allow you to earn more without losing benefits. Always report changes in income to SSA.

Source: SSA, SGA Limits 2025 [Accessed: 2025-11-05]

You must report changes in health, work, or income to SSA to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible. SSA offers work incentives and reporting tools to help you stay compliant. If you have an overpayment, contact SSA to discuss repayment options.

Source: SSA, Avoiding Overpayments and Reporting Changes [Accessed: 2025-11-05]

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For federal disability benefits
• Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities
  Phone: 1-866-273-2227

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For state disability services

• Can Myalgic Encephalomyelitis qualify for disability in Florida?

  Yes, if your condition severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. Florida uses federal rules for disability determination.

• What are the income limits for disability benefits in Florida?

  For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. SSI has additional income and resource limits.

• How do I apply for disability benefits in Florida?

  Gather medical records and work history, then apply online at SSA.gov or call SSA. Florida’s Division of Disability Determinations will review your medical evidence.

• What state programs help people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in Florida?

  Florida offers Medicaid waivers, vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology support, and special needs registries for emergency preparedness.

• Do I need to report changes in my condition or income?

  Yes, you must report any changes in health, work, or income to SSA to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits.

• Can I work while receiving disability benefits in Florida?

  You can work, but your earnings must stay below SGA limits. Some work incentives allow you to earn more without losing benefits.

• What is an ABLE account and how can it help?