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Florida • Sensory
People with Deaf-Blindness in Florida can access a mix of federal and state-funded programs, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility criteria, application steps, and state-specific resources to support income, healthcare, and financial independence for the Deaf-Blind community.
To qualify for SSI or SSDI with Deaf-Blindness, you must have a severe medical impairment that prevents work. SSI is need-based—your income and resources must be under strict federal limits. SSDI requires enough work credits. For 2025, earning over $2,700/month if blind usually means you’re not eligible for disability benefits[3][6]. SSI also looks at your household’s income and resources. Children with Deaf-Blindness may qualify for SSI if their condition results in ‘marked and severe functional limitations’ and their household income is under the limit[4]. For SSDI, there’s a five-month waiting period. After approval, most people wait 24 months for Medicare, except in cases like ALS or end-stage renal disease[3].
State-specific information is limited; start here:
Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Make sure your Deaf-Blindness meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability and that your income/resources fall under SSI limits. If you’ve worked and paid Social Security taxes, also check SSDI eligibility[3][4].
Step 2: Collect Documentation Gather medical records, proof of income, bank statements, and any other required documents. Include detailed reports from doctors and specialists about your Deaf-Blindness and its functional impact.
Step 3: Apply for Benefits You can apply for SSI and SSDI online, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or in person at a Social Security office. Deaf and hard of hearing applicants can use TTY 1-800-325-0778. If you prefer, contact Florida Department of Health’s Division of Disability Determinations for local support[2].
Step 4: Wait for a Decision SSA will review your application and may request more information. If denied, you can appeal. Disability Rights Florida can help with appeals and advocate for your rights[5].
Step 5: Explore Additional Resources Apply for Florida Medicaid if eligible. Ask about Medicaid waivers (HCBS) for more services. Consider opening a Florida ABLE account to save money without affecting benefit eligibility. Register with the Florida Special Needs Registry for emergency preparedness[2].
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Monthly cash benefit for low-income individuals with disabilities, including Deaf-Blindness. Strict income and resource limits apply[3][4]. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Family members may also qualify for benefits[3]. Medicare: Available after 24 months on SSDI (except for ALS or ESRD). Covers hospital, doctor, and some home health services. ABLE Accounts: Savings accounts that don’t count toward SSI resource limits. Help build financial independence—see our ABLE Accounts guide for details.
Florida Medicaid: Covers healthcare for low-income individuals with disabilities. Medicaid waivers (like iBudget) offer home and community-based services, but may have waiting lists—contact the Agency for Persons with Disabilities for details[2]. Special Needs Registry: If you rely on electricity or need help during emergencies, sign up with the Florida Special Needs Registry for priority assistance[2]. Advocacy and Support: Disability Rights Florida provides free legal help and advocacy for disability-related issues, including benefit applications and appeals[5]. Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology and Florida Centers on Autism and Related Disabilities may have additional programs for sensory disabilities[2]. Education Services: Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Exceptional Student Education supports students with Deaf-Blindness in public schools. Emergency Preparedness: Guidance for people with access and functional needs during disasters is available from the Florida Department of Health[2].
Florida ABLE United allows people with disabilities (including Deaf-Blindness) to save up to $18,000/year (2025) without losing SSI or Medicaid. Funds can pay for qualified disability expenses. Learn more in our ABLE Accounts guide.
For 2025, SSI and SSDI applicants who are blind can earn up to $2,700/month before benefits are affected—this is higher than the non-blind limit of $1,620/month[6]. SSI also counts your resources (like cash, bank accounts) toward a $2,000 individual limit ($3,000 for couples)[3]. ABLE accounts and certain other assets may be excluded.
Always report changes in your income, living situation, or resources to Social Security and Medicaid. If you get too much money by mistake, you may have to pay it back. See our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for tips to protect your benefits.
If you rely on medical equipment or need help to evacuate during a hurricane, sign up for Florida’s Special Needs Registry. This ensures emergency responders know your needs in advance. This service is critical for people with Deaf-Blindness who may have unique communication and mobility needs during disasters.
If your SSI or SSDI application is denied, don’t give up. Most denials happen because of paperwork errors or missing medical evidence. Disability Rights Florida offers free legal help with appeals—you may have a strong case with the right support.
SSI is a need-based program for people with limited income and resources. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require you to meet the Social Security definition of disability, but eligibility rules and payment amounts differ[3].
Yes, in 2025, blind applicants can earn up to $2,700/month before losing disability benefits, compared to $1,620/month for non-blind applicants[4][6].
You may qualify for both if you meet the income, resource, and work history requirements, but most people receive one or the other due to overlapping eligibility rules.
Medicaid waivers (like the iBudget Florida waiver) can pay for in-home supports, community-based services, and assistive technology—separate from regular Medicaid. Ask the Agency for Persons with Disabilities about current programs and waitlists[2].
ABLE accounts let you save money (up to $18,000/year in 2025) without losing SSI or Medicaid. Funds pay for qualified expenses like housing, transportation, and assistive technology—see our [ABLE Accounts](/guides/able-accounts) guide for details.
You can appeal online, by phone, or in writing. Disability Rights Florida provides free legal help with appeals and advocates for your rights during the process[5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. Program rules and benefit amounts change. Always check with official agencies for the latest details. We are not affiliated with any government program.
Florida’s Special Needs Registry helps people with disabilities get assistance during hurricanes or emergencies. Contact the Florida Department of Health for details and register in advance[2].
Florida’s public schools must provide services for children with disabilities under federal law. The Bureau of Exceptional Student Education and Centers on Autism and Related Disabilities offer resources and support[2].
Your benefits may be reduced or stopped if your income goes over the allowed limit. Always report changes to Social Security and Medicaid to avoid overpayments—see our [Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes](/guides/overpayments-and-reporting) guide.
The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology can help you find and fund devices that help with communication, mobility, and daily living activities[2].
