Maximizing Social Security Disability Benefits for Blind Applicants
For individuals who are legally blind, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides special rules and advantages when applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These regulations make it easier for blind applicants to qualify for benefits and receive higher payments. Our Arkansas and Nationwide Social Security Disability Benefit Attorneys at American Disability Action Group can help you maximize your benefits.
Understanding Legal Blindness
Before diving into the specific rules for blind applicants, it’s important to understand the SSA’s definition of blindness. The SSA considers you legally blind if your vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in your better eye or if your visual field is limited to 20 degrees or less. If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible for the special benefits available to blind applicants.
Earnings Limits for SSDI
One of the biggest advantages for blind SSDI applicants is the higher earnings limit. For most individuals applying for SSDI, they must not be earning more than the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit of $1,470 per month in 2024. However, for blind applicants, the earnings limit is significantly higher—set at $2,460 per month in 2024.
This higher limit allows blind individuals to continue working and earning more income while still being eligible for SSDI benefits. For residents of Arkansas, Oklahoma, and other states, this provides an important financial cushion, allowing you to work without immediately losing your benefits.
Blind Work Expenses (BWE)
The SSA also allows blind SSDI and SSI applicants to deduct work-related expenses from their income when calculating eligibility. These Blind Work Expenses (BWE) include items like guide dogs, transportation, specialized work equipment, and even certain home modifications. By deducting these expenses, you can reduce your countable income and potentially increase your monthly benefit amount.
For example, a blind individual living in Texas might need a specialized computer or other assistive technology to perform their job. The cost of this technology can be deducted from their income, allowing them to work and still receive full SSDI or SSI benefits.
Trial Work Period for SSDI Recipients
Blind SSDI recipients also benefit from extended work incentives. The Trial Work Period (TWP) allows individuals to test their ability to work for up to nine months without losing their benefits, regardless of how much they earn during those months. After the TWP, you may still receive benefits for a 36-month extended eligibility period as long as your earnings do not exceed the higher SGA limit for blind individuals.
This flexibility is particularly valuable for those in Louisiana and other states where job opportunities may fluctuate, allowing you to re-enter the workforce without the immediate risk of losing your SSDI benefits.
How American Disability Action Group Can Help
At American Disability Action Group, we understand the unique challenges blind individuals face when applying for SSDI and SSI benefits. Our experienced team can help residents in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Louisiana navigate the application process, ensuring you take full advantage of the special rules and benefits available to you.
Source:
secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0500820535
