Social Security and Disabling Vision Impairments: Find Out about the SSA’s Special Rules for Blind Americans and Americans with No Vision

One of the things that blind Americans and Americans with low vision or vision impairments may wonder is what options to compensation they have under the federal Social Security program. Indeed, while there are many types of different disabling impairments that may qualify a Social Security Disability applicant to Social Security Disability benefits, there are certain “special” rules for blind and “low vision” Americans, specifically. But what exactly are the Social Security Administration’s special rules for blind and low vision Americans? And where can blind and low vision Americans go for legal help obtaining these important Social Security Disability benefits? To help blind and low vision Americans better understand what they may be entitled to under the Social Security Administration’s special rules, and where they can turn for help, we answer those questions here.

“Legally Blind” Under the Social Security Special Rules

At the outset, the Social Security Administration has certain criteria and rules when it comes to considering a person “legally blind.” As the Social Security Administration explains, “We consider you to be legally blind under our rules if your vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in your better eye. We will also consider you legally blind if your visual field is 20 degrees or less, even with a corrective lens. Many people who meet the legal definition of blindness still have some sight and may be able to read large print and get around without a cane or a guide dog.” However, even if a person is not legally blind, they may still be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Administration establishes that, “If you do not meet the legal definition of blindness, you may still be eligible for disability benefits. This may be the case if your vision problems alone or combined with other health problems prevent you from working.”

Special Income Limit Established by the SSA for Legally Blind and Low Vision Social Security Disability Applicants and Recipients

It is also important to note that the income limit for blind and low vision Social Security disability applicants and recipients is typically higher than that of other disabled workers that are not blind. According to the Social Security Administration, “There are several special rules for people who are blind that recognize the severe impact of blindness on a person’s ability to work. For example, the monthly earnings limit for people who are blind is generally higher than the limit that applies to non-blind workers with disabilities.” The current income limit in 2025 is $2,700.

Were to Turn for Legal Help with Your Social Security Disability Case

If you are seeking Social Security Disability benefits and you need legal help, contact the experienced Social Security Disability lawyers at Nationwide Disability Law. The experienced Social Security Disability lawyers at Nationwide Disability Law are here to help disabled Americans get important money benefits due to them. Do not hesitate to speak to a lawyer about your case today. Contact Nationwide Disability Law and chat with a lawyer about your case now.

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ssa.gov/benefits/disability/qualify.html#anchor5