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Florida • Neurological/Developmental
People in Florida with traumatic brain injury (TBI) may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs for home care, case management, and Medicaid waivers. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) with traumatic brain injury, you must have a severe impairment that stops you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be limited. In 2025, you generally cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) and still qualify for SSDI or SSI. The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews your medical records and work history to decide eligibility.
Both programs require proof of disability and ongoing medical review.
SSA: How to Qualify for Disability (2025)
SSA: Benefits for Children with Disabilities (2025)
In Florida, adults with traumatic brain injury (18–59 years old) may qualify for home and community-based services through the Adult Protective Services (APS) program. These services include case management, in-home care, and a small financial subsidy to help with living expenses. Eligibility requires permanent physical or mental limitations that restrict daily activities and the ability to live independently. The program aims to help people stay in their homes instead of nursing homes.
Florida also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can cover long-term care, therapy, and support services. The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) manages many of these programs. If you have TBI, you may qualify for APD services if your condition meets medical and functional criteria.
SSA: How to Apply for Disability (2025)
Florida DCF: APS Application (2025)
SSA: Disability Benefits (2025)
Medicaid.gov (2025)
Florida DCF: APS for Persons with Disabilities (2025)
Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (2025)
Florida Health: Disability Determinations (2025)
Florida ABLE Program (2025)
ABLE accounts let people with traumatic brain injury 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. The account can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits.
Florida ABLE Program (2025)
SSA: 2025 SSI Payment Amounts (2025)
SSA: How to Qualify for Disability (2025)
You must report changes in income, work, or health to the Social Security Administration and Florida agencies to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to keep your benefits and avoid penalties.
SSA: Reporting Changes (2025)
You can ask a family member, friend, or support professional to help you fill out your application for government benefits. Many agencies offer application assistance.
If you have traumatic brain injury and need help during emergencies, register for Florida’s special needs shelter program to get evacuation and medical support.
In 2025, you generally cannot earn more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) and still qualify for SSDI in Florida. This is called the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit.
Yes, you can get both SSDI and Medicaid in Florida if you meet the income and resource limits for Medicaid. SSDI does not have a resource limit, but Medicaid does.
Contact the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) or Adult Protective Services (APS) to apply for home care services. You will need to provide medical records and meet eligibility criteria.
An ABLE account lets you 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.
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health to the Social Security Administration and Florida agencies to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits.
Most people must wait 24 months after getting SSDI to receive Medicare in Florida. There are exceptions for ALS and end-stage renal disease.
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 can work part-time and still get SSDI in Florida if your earnings are below the SGA limit of $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) in 2025.
Florida offers home and community-based services, case management, Medicaid waivers, and special needs shelters for adults with traumatic brain injury. Contact APD or APS for more information.
The approval process for SSDI or SSI in Florida can take several months. It depends on how quickly you provide medical records and complete required steps.
Yes, family members may be eligible for dependent benefits if you get SSDI. Contact the Social Security Administration for details.
