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Florida • Neurological/Developmental
People with Tourette Syndrome in Florida may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs for healthcare and work support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in 2025, your Tourette Syndrome must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit to decide if you can work. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If your monthly earnings are above these amounts, you generally cannot be considered disabled for SSDI or SSI[6][7].
SSDI is for people who have a history of work and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history[5]. Both programs require medical proof that your disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death[9].
In Florida, eligibility for disability benefits is determined by the Florida Department of Health's Division of Disability Determinations. They review medical evidence and work history to decide if you meet federal standards for SSDI or SSI[4].
Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities who need extra support at home or in the community. These waivers help pay for services like personal care, therapy, and assistive technology[4].
A new Medicaid buy-in program for working individuals with disabilities is being proposed in 2025. This would let people who earn too much for traditional Medicaid still get health coverage if they have a disability[2].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Florida, you can open an ABLE account and save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation[5].
You must report any changes in income, work, or health to the SSA and Florida agencies. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits active. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Regular reporting is required to stay eligible for benefits[5].
Florida is launching a Medicaid buy-in program for working individuals with disabilities. This means you can earn more and still get health coverage if you have a disability[2].
Yes, if Tourette Syndrome is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You need medical proof that your condition limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least 12 months[6][9].
In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. If you earn more than this, you generally cannot be considered disabled for SSDI or SSI[6][7].
Gather medical records and work history, then apply online at SSA.gov or at a local Social Security office. For Medicaid or waivers, contact the Florida Department of Health[4][6].
Medicaid waivers help pay for services like personal care, therapy, and assistive technology for people with disabilities who want to live at home or in the community[4].
This program lets people with disabilities who work and earn too much for traditional Medicaid still get health coverage. Premiums and cost-sharing are based on income, making it more affordable[2].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $100,000 and use funds for qualified disability expenses[5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
Yes, you must report any changes in income, work, or health to the SSA and Florida agencies. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits active[5].
If your income is too high for SSI, you may lose benefits. However, you may still qualify for SSDI or the new Medicaid buy-in program if you have a disability[2][5].
Yes, you can work and still get benefits if your earnings are below the SGA limit. The SSA has work incentives to help you test your ability to work without losing benefits[3][6].
You can get help from the Florida Department of Health, local Social Security offices, or nonprofit organizations that support people with disabilities[4][5].
