Does Social Security Impact Medicaid Eligibility in Florida?
Many people assume their Social Security benefits won't affect their ability to qualify for Medicaid in Florida. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Your Social Security income plays a significant role in determining whether you can receive Medicaid benefits to help pay for long-term care.
The Common Misconception
When clients schedule consultations, they often say something like, "I don't have much in savings, and my only income is Social Security, so I should be fine for Medicaid." The reality is more complex. Social Security absolutely counts when determining Medicaid eligibility in Florida.
Florida's Two-Part Medicaid Test
Medicaid uses both an asset test and an income test to determine eligibility:
The Asset Test You cannot have more than $2,000 in countable assets to your name. While this seems restrictive, there are legitimate ways to protect your assets without spending down everything you've worked for and without waiting five years.
The Income Test Florida has an income cap that changes annually. As of 2026, that cap stands at $2,982 per month. This limit applies to all sources of income combined—and yes, that includes your Social Security benefits.
When Social Security Becomes a Problem
Some Florida residents receive more than $2,982 per month from Social Security alone. If your monthly Social Security check is $3,000, you would not qualify for Medicaid based solely on that income—even if you have minimal assets.
The state doesn't just look at Social Security. They examine every source of income you receive. This includes:
- Social Security retirement benefits
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Pensions
- Annuities
- Any other regular income
The Solution: Income Trusts
Fortunately, having income above the cap doesn't mean you're out of options. Florida law provides a workaround through what's called a Qualified Income Trust (QIT), also known as a Miller Trust.
Here's how it works: Any income that exceeds the $2,982 monthly cap must be transferred into this special trust. The excess amount—whatever is above that threshold—goes into the trust, allowing you to meet Medicaid's income requirements.
You might hear this tool referred to by different names:
- Qualified Income Trust
- Miller Trust
- QIT
- QUIT
These terms all refer to the same solution. Additionally, a pooled trust can serve the same purpose in certain situations.
SSDI Recipients Need to Pay Attention
If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), this applies to you too. Your SSDI payments count toward the income cap just like regular Social Security retirement benefits. The state makes no distinction between these types of Social Security income when calculating your eligibility.
Protecting Your Assets and Income
The good news is that virtually every Medicaid eligibility challenge has a legal and ethical solution. Whether your income exceeds Florida's cap or your assets surpass the $2,000 limit, proven strategies can help you qualify for Medicaid while protecting what you've worked for.
These planning tools allow you to:
- Receive help paying for care at home or in a facility
- Protect your assets without spending down to poverty levels
- Avoid the five-year look-back period penalties
- Maintain your financial security
Taking Action in Florida
Medicaid planning isn't something to handle alone. The rules are complex, and the stakes are high. One mistake could cost you thousands of dollars or delay the care you need.
If you're anywhere in Florida and concerned about how your Social Security income might affect your Medicaid eligibility, professional guidance can make all the difference. The right approach today can protect your financial future and ensure you receive the care you deserve.
Resources:
Visit elderneedslaw.com for more information about Medicaid planning in Florida.
For comprehensive guidance, check out medicaidplanninglawyer.com.
Get detailed information in the book: Medicaid: How to Pay for Long-Term Care Expenses - available on Amazon.
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Medicaid rules and income caps change regularly. Consult with a qualified Florida elder law attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
