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Florida • Neurodegenerative
If you have Parkinson’s Disease in Florida, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, plus state programs such as Medicaid waivers. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what changes are coming in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with Parkinson’s Disease, your condition must severely limit your ability to work. For SSDI, you must have a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. In 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, you generally cannot be considered disabled. Parkinson’s Disease is listed in the Social Security Blue Book under Section 11.06, so if your symptoms match the listing, you may qualify automatically. If not, you can still qualify if your condition prevents you from doing any substantial work for at least 12 months.
In Florida, the Division of Disability Determinations reviews medical evidence to decide if you qualify for federal disability benefits. Parkinson’s Disease is considered a qualifying condition if it meets SSA criteria. Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can help pay for home care, therapy, and other services. These waivers are limited and have waiting lists, so apply early. Some programs may require you to be a Florida resident and meet income and asset limits. If you are approved for SSDI or SSI, you may also qualify for Florida Medicaid, food assistance, and other support programs.
Step 1: Collect all medical records related to Parkinson’s Disease, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans.
Step 2: Get your work history and Social Security number ready.
Step 3: Go to the SSA website and create an account.
Step 4: Start your SSDI or SSI application online, or call SSA to apply by phone.
Step 5: If you prefer, visit your local SSA office to apply in person.
Step 6: Submit all required documents, including medical evidence and proof of income.
Step 7: Respond to any requests for more information from SSA.
Step 8: If your application is denied, you can appeal within 60 days.
Step 9: If approved, you may need to apply for Florida Medicaid and other state programs.
Step 10: Report any changes in your health or income to avoid overpayments.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with limited income and resources.
Medicare: Health insurance for people who receive SSDI after a 24-month waiting period.
Medicaid: Health coverage for people with low income, including those on SSI.
ABLE Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for disability-related expenses.
Florida offers several programs for people with Parkinson’s Disease:
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): These waivers help pay for home care, therapy, and other services. The main waivers are the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver and the Brain and Spinal Cord Injury (BSCI) Waiver. These programs have limited slots and waiting lists, so apply early.
Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD): Provides support services for people with developmental disabilities, including some with Parkinson’s Disease.
Special Needs Shelters: Florida has special needs shelters for people who need help during emergencies.
Vulnerable Populations Registry: Register if you need assistance during disasters.
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Florida, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE United program. You can save up to $17,000 per year, and the account grows tax-free. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Florida may have additional state-specific limits for Medicaid and other programs. Always report changes in income to avoid overpayments.
You must report any changes in your income, work, or health to SSA and Florida Medicaid. If you do not report changes, you may receive an overpayment and have to pay it back. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a payment plan.
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSDI is $1,620/month for non-blind individuals. This means you can earn more before your benefits are affected. Make sure to report any changes in your income or health to avoid overpayments.
Florida Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services have limited slots and waiting lists. If you need help with home care or therapy, apply as soon as possible.
Yes, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. In 2025, that’s $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn more, you may lose your benefits. There are work incentives to help you test your ability to work without losing benefits.
The approval process can take several months to over a year. It depends on how quickly SSA gets your medical records and whether your application is approved or denied. You can speed up the process by providing complete medical evidence.
You need detailed medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans. SSA looks for evidence that your Parkinson’s Disease severely limits your ability to work and will last at least 12 months.
Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs. SSDI is based on your work history, and SSI is based on your income and resources. Some people qualify for both.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources. Both programs provide monthly payments, but the eligibility rules are different.
If you are approved for SSI, you may automatically qualify for Florida Medicaid. Otherwise, you can apply through the Access Florida website or your local Department of Children and Families office.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
A Medicaid waiver helps pay for home care, therapy, and other services. These waivers are limited and have waiting lists, so apply early. They can help you stay in your home instead of moving to a nursing facility.
Yes, if you became disabled before age 26, you can open an ABLE account. You can save up to $17,000 per year, and the account grows tax-free. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses.
You can appeal the decision within 60 days. Gather more medical evidence and consider getting help from a disability attorney or advocate. The appeals process can take several months.
Yes, you must report any changes to SSA and Florida Medicaid. If you do not report changes, you may receive an overpayment and have to pay it back.
