People who are blind in Arizona may qualify for federal and state benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), AHCCCS (Medicaid), and work incentives. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key changes for 2025.
To qualify for federal disability benefits if you are blind, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of blindness. This means central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in your better eye with corrective lenses, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. You may qualify for SSDI if you have enough work credits, or for SSI if you have limited income and resources. In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for blind individuals is $2,700 per month, which is higher than for non-blind disabled individuals. This means you can earn more and still keep your benefits. The SSA also considers blindness as a qualifying disability for children and adults, and there are special rules for those who became blind before age 22. [^1][^2]
In Arizona, people who are blind may qualify for AHCCCS (Medicaid) if they meet income and residency requirements. There are no monthly premiums for AHCCCS if you are blind or disabled. To qualify, you must be an Arizona resident, a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, have a Social Security number, and meet the income limit. For 2025, the gross monthly income limit for a single applicant is $1,305. If your income is higher, you may still qualify for other AHCCCS categories. Arizona also offers work incentives and expert help through the DB101 Arizona program, which can help you plan for employment and keep your benefits. [^3][^4]
Arizona offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year in an ABLE account. Funds can be used for expenses like education, housing, transportation, and more. For more information, visit the ABLE National Resource Center or contact your state’s ABLE program.
| Program | 2025 Income Limit (Single) | |---------|--------------------------| | SSI (Federal) | $943/month | | AHCCCS (Arizona) | $1,305/month (gross) | | SSDI SGA (Blind) | $2,700/month |
These limits are for 2025 and may change each year. Always check with SSA and AHCCCS for the most current information.
It is important to report any changes in your income, work, or health to SSA and AHCCCS to avoid overpayments. If you receive an overpayment, you may be asked to repay the money. You can request a waiver if you cannot afford to repay. For more information, see the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide.
Contact DB101 Arizona for free help with work incentives and benefits planning. Call 1-866-304-WORK (9675) to speak with a Work Incentive Consultant.
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for blind individuals in 2025 is $2,700 per month. This means you can earn up to this amount and still keep your SSDI benefits. This limit is higher than for non-blind disabled individuals.
You can apply for AHCCCS online at azhealthcare.gov, by phone at 1-855-432-7587, or in person at a local office. You will need to provide proof of income, residency, and blindness. There are no monthly premiums for AHCCCS if you are blind or disabled.
Yes, you can work and still get disability benefits if you are blind. The SGA limit for blind individuals is higher, so you can earn more and still keep your benefits. Arizona also offers work incentives and expert help to help you plan for employment.
The gross monthly income limit for a single applicant for AHCCCS in Arizona in 2025 is $1,305. If your income is higher, you may still qualify for other AHCCCS categories.
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year. Funds can be used for expenses like education, housing, transportation, and more.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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The federal SSI payment for blind individuals in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. This amount may be higher in some states due to state supplements.
SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes before their disability. SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are blind, disabled, or age 65 or older. Both programs have different eligibility rules and payment amounts.
You can get help with work incentives in Arizona by contacting DB101 Arizona. Call 1-866-304-WORK (9675) to speak with a Work Incentive Consultant. They can help you plan for employment and keep your benefits.
The Ticket to Work program helps people with disabilities find and keep jobs. It provides free services and supports, and you can keep your benefits while you work. For more information, visit ssa.gov.
A Medicaid waiver helps pay for long-term care services for people with disabilities. Arizona offers Home and Community-Based Services waivers. You can apply through AHCCCS or contact your local office for more information.
