Receiving Medicaid HCBS and Social Security Survivors benefits in Florida--Can I work without the state holding most of my earnings?
I'm permanently disabled since birth and rely on Medicaid HCBS to live (Medicare is my primary insurance but it doesn't cover the services I need). I also receive $2,366 monthly in Social Security Survivor benefits (disabled child of a deceased beneficiary) as my only income. The Florida Medicaid monthly income limit is $2,982. Can I work without all job income in excess of $616/month going into a Qualified Income Trust that can only be used to pay for Medicaid services or non-covered medical expenses? I'm under the impression Florida has no other options but I want to make sure. I know about Ticket to Work, but the resources I've read said I have to receive SSI or SSDI. I'd like to be able to try working and earning an income via freelance/self-employed work, but I don't know whether earnings above $616/month will just go to the state.
Thanks for any help!