The Social Security Administration defines legal blindness as having vision that is uncorrectable to be better than 20/200 or a visual field of 20 degrees or less.
Obtaining Social Security Disability benefits due to legal blindness involves meeting specific criteria set by the SSA. This financial assistance provides essential support for individuals living with legal blindness, helping them maintain financial stability and improve their quality of life.
Medical requirements
Applicants must provide accurate and comprehensive medical records that detail the extent of visual impairment and its impact on daily activities. This documentation should include clinical reports, vision test results and statements from ophthalmologists or other medical professionals familiar with the applicant’s condition.
Non-medical requirements
Non-medical requirements encompass factors including age, work history and financial eligibility. Applicant must have enough work credits. They earn these through work. The SSA also requires them to be recent credits. If individuals do not qualify under their own work record, they might be eligible through a spouse or parent’s record.
Special rules to note
The SSA does set a threshold for earnings individuals can make while receiving benefits to maintain eligibility. This limit is higher for those who are legally blind. The SSA also has different rules for earnings when a person reaches the age of 55, which can allow for higher earnings without impacting eligibility.
To apply for Social Security Disability benefits due to legal blindness, the applicant needs to submit a formal application along with all the required documentation. The application process can be complex and time-consuming, but providing accurate and thorough information is essential to avoid delays or denials.
