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Florida • Rare/Genetic
People with Prader-Willi Syndrome in Florida may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a severe impairment that prevents substantial work and have enough work credits from recent employment. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must cause marked and severe functional limitations. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Children with Prader-Willi Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition meets these criteria and their family’s income and resources are within limits [6].
Both SSDI and SSI require medical evidence showing that the disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews medical records, school reports, and other documentation to make a decision [6].
In Florida, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the Division of Disability Determinations, which works with the SSA to review medical evidence for SSDI and SSI applications. Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those with Prader-Willi Syndrome, to access home and community-based services. To qualify for these waivers, you must meet both federal disability criteria and Florida’s financial and functional requirements. The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) manages many of these programs and can help with eligibility screening and application support [2].
Florida’s Medicaid waivers may require a waiting list, so it’s important to apply early. Additional state resources include the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology, which provides assistive devices, and the Florida Centers on Autism and Related Disabilities, which offer support and information for families [2].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. The balance in an ABLE account does not count toward the SSI resource limit as long as it is under $100,000. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services [3].
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA and Florida agencies to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly [4].
Contact the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities for help with Medicaid waivers and other state programs. They can guide you through the application process and connect you with local resources.
Yes, a child with Prader-Willi Syndrome may qualify for SSI if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations and their family’s income and resources are within limits. The SSA reviews medical evidence and family financial information to make a decision [6].
In 2025, the SGA limit for SSI is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual [6].
Contact the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) to apply for Medicaid waivers. They will screen you for eligibility and help you apply for the appropriate waiver program. These waivers provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities [2].
Yes, adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome may qualify for SSDI if they have a qualifying work history and their disability prevents substantial work. SSDI is based on work credits earned through Social Security payroll taxes [3].
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. The balance does not count toward the SSI resource limit as long as it is under $100,000 [3].
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.
Yes, you must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA and Florida agencies to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits [4].
Florida Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services such as personal care, respite care, and assistive technology for people with disabilities, including those with Prader-Willi Syndrome [2].
The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology provides assistive devices and technology to help people with disabilities live independently. Contact them for information and support [2].
Most SSDI recipients get Medicare after a 24-month waiting period, except for those with ALS or end-stage renal disease, who get Medicare without a waiting period [3].
The Florida Centers on Autism and Related Disabilities offers support and information for families of children with disabilities, including Prader-Willi Syndrome. Contact them for resources and guidance [2].
