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Colorado • Sensory
People with low vision in Colorado may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, state-specific programs such as Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only, and Medicaid Buy-In. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit requirement (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must meet Social Security’s definition, which includes low vision if it severely limits your ability to work[^1].
Low vision is considered a qualifying disability if it meets the Social Security Administration’s criteria for blindness or other severe visual impairments[^1].
In Colorado, adults with low vision may qualify for state programs if they meet specific criteria. The Aid to the Needy Disabled-State Only (AND-SO) program provides cash assistance to low-income residents with a qualifying disability, including low vision, who are between 18 and 59 years old and actively pursuing SSI benefits[^3].
The Health First Colorado Buy-In Program allows working adults with disabilities, including low vision, to buy into Medicaid if they are employed, have a qualifying disability, and their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level[^2]. You do not need to apply for SSA disability to qualify for this program[^2].
Colorado also offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities that started before age 26, including those with low vision, if they meet SSA criteria or have a physician’s diagnosis[^6].
Colorado ABLE accounts allow people with low vision to save up to $16,000 per year (2025 limit) for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. To qualify, you must have a qualifying disability (SSI/SSDI or self-certification with a physician’s diagnosis) that started before age 26[^6].
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943/month for an individual in 2025. For Health First Colorado Buy-In, income must be below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level. For AND-SO, resources must be under $2,000 for an unmarried person and $3,000 for a married person[^3][2].
Report any changes in income, work status, or living situation to Social Security and Colorado human services to avoid overpayments. Failure to report can result in repayment or loss of benefits[^7].
Contact DVR or a Center for Independent Living for free help with disability applications and benefits planning.
Yes, you can work and receive disability benefits. Social Security offers work incentives, and Colorado’s Health First Colorado Buy-In Program allows working adults with disabilities to keep Medicaid coverage if their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level[^2][5].
Your low vision must meet Social Security’s criteria for blindness or severe visual impairment. See SSA’s Blue Book for specific requirements. A physician’s diagnosis is also needed for some state programs[^1][6].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both can provide monthly benefits and health coverage for low vision if you meet eligibility criteria[^1].
Yes, Colorado’s Health First Colorado Buy-In Program allows working adults with disabilities, including low vision, to buy into Medicaid if their income is below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level[^2].
AND-SO provides interim cash assistance to low-income adults with disabilities, including low vision, who are actively pursuing SSI benefits. The maximum grant is $248/month[^3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Apply for SSI/SSDI online, by phone, or in person. For state programs, apply through your county human services office or the Health First Colorado website. DVR and Centers for Independent Living can help with the process[^1][5].
A Colorado ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including low vision, that started before age 26. You can save up to $16,000 per year for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits[^6].
Not always. For Health First Colorado Buy-In, you can qualify with a state disability determination if you don’t have an SSA determination. For SSI/SSDI, you need an SSA determination[^2][4].
Working can affect your benefits, but Social Security and Colorado offer work incentives and programs like the Buy-In to help you keep coverage. Report changes in income to avoid overpayments[^5][7].
Contact DVR, Centers for Independent Living, or your county human services office for help with applications and benefits planning. They can guide you through the process and answer questions[^5].
