People with Spina Bifida in Florida can access federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, plus state programs for home care, Medicaid waivers, and support services. Eligibility depends on medical need, income, and age. Many programs have waiting lists, so apply early.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with Spina Bifida, you must have a medical condition that severely limits your ability to work or live independently. For SSI, your income and resources must be limited (under $2,000 for individuals in 2025). For SSDI, you need a work history and enough work credits. The Social Security Administration uses strict medical criteria, including "marked and severe functional limitations" for children and adults. If you are working and earning more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind), you generally cannot be considered disabled in 2025[6].
Children with Spina Bifida may qualify for SSI if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations and their family’s income and resources are within limits[4].
In Florida, adults with Spina Bifida (ages 18-59) who have permanent physical or mental limitations may qualify for Adult Protective Services (APS) home care and case management. These services help people live independently instead of in nursing homes. APS provides a small financial subsidy to approved caregivers to help cover living and medical costs not covered by insurance. Eligibility is based on medical need and functional limitations, not just income. However, APS programs are often fully enrolled, so eligible applicants are placed on a statewide waiting list[1].
Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including Spina Bifida, which can provide home and community-based services. The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is the main state agency for support and services for people with disabilities, including those with Spina Bifida[5].
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 program. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits[3].
For SSI in 2025, an individual’s resources must be under $2,000. For children, family income and resources are also considered. For SSDI, there is no resource limit, but there is a monthly earnings limit (over $1,620 for non-blind, $2,700 for blind)[4][6]. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size[3].
If your income, resources, or living situation changes, you must report it to Social Security and Florida ACCESS. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and report them as soon as possible[3].
Many Florida disability programs, including home care and Medicaid waivers, have waiting lists. Apply as soon as you qualify to avoid delays.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Florida ACCESS to avoid overpayments and penalties.
People with Spina Bifida in Florida can get SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicare if they meet medical and financial criteria. SSI is for those with limited income, SSDI is for those with a work history, and Medicaid/Medicare cover health care[3][6].
Apply through the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) or Florida ACCESS. Medicaid waivers provide home care and other services for people with disabilities, but slots are limited and there may be waiting lists[5].
Yes, adults with Spina Bifida (18-59) may qualify for Adult Protective Services (APS) home care and case management. APS provides a small subsidy to help with living costs, but programs are often full and have waiting lists[1].
In 2025, an individual’s resources must be under $2,000 to qualify for SSI. For children, family income and resources are also considered. There is no resource limit for SSDI, but there is a monthly earnings limit[4][6].
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records, proof of income, and proof of resources. The Social Security Administration will review your medical condition and financial situation[6].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Florida has its own ABLE program for residents[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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Yes, many state programs for people with disabilities, including APS home care and Medicaid waivers, have waiting lists. Apply early to get on the list as soon as possible[1][5].
Children with Spina Bifida may qualify for SSI if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations and their family’s income and resources are within limits. Medicaid and Medicaid waivers may also be available[4][5].
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security and Florida ACCESS as soon as possible. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties[3].
Florida has special needs shelters for people with disabilities during emergencies. Register for the special needs registry if you need help during evacuations or power outages[2].
