Blind Disability Benefits Calculator

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is based on your work history and tax contributions, while SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a needs-based program for low-income individuals regardless of work history. For blind individuals, SSDI has more lenient income limits ($2,260/month in 2023) compared to non-blind disabilities, while SSI has strict income and asset limits.

SSA defines legal blindness as either: 1) Visual acuity of 20/200 or less in your better eye with the best possible correction (glasses or contacts), or 2) A visual field of 20 degrees or less in your better eye. You must meet one of these criteria to qualify for benefits under the blindness rules.

Yes, blind individuals can work and still receive SSDI benefits as long as earnings are below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level for blindness ($2,260/month in 2023). For SSI, earnings will reduce your benefit amount dollar-for-dollar after the first $85. Special rules may apply for work expenses related to your blindness.

You may still qualify for disability benefits if your vision problems combined with other health conditions prevent you from working. The evaluation would be under the regular disability rules rather than the special blindness rules. Our calculator can estimate both scenarios.

Initial decisions typically take 3-5 months. Blindness claims are often processed faster than other disabilities because the medical criteria are more objective. If you’re clearly legally blind with proper documentation, approval may come more quickly. However, if your application requires additional development or you appeal a denial, the process can take much longer.

You’ll need a comprehensive eye exam report that includes: visual acuity measurements (with correction), visual field test results, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment history. Reports should come from an ophthalmologist or optometrist. SSA may pay for an exam if you don’t have recent medical evidence.

Yes, SSI has higher income and resource limits for blind individuals compared to non-blind disabled individuals. Blind SSI recipients can exclude more work-related expenses, and some states offer supplemental payments. Also, blind individuals can have higher asset limits in some cases.

Yes, if your SSDI payment is low enough and you meet the financial requirements for SSI, you may qualify for both programs (called “concurrent benefits”). Our calculator checks both programs to see if you might be eligible for this combination.

Many states offer additional benefits like vocational rehabilitation, home care assistance, property tax relief, transportation services, and cash assistance. These vary widely by state. Our calculator identifies programs available in your state based on your residence.

For adults, blindness cases are typically reviewed every 5-7 years unless medical improvement is expected. Children’s cases are reviewed more frequently. Reviews focus on whether you still meet the medical criteria and (for SSI) financial requirements. You must report changes in your vision, work, or income.