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Delaware • Sensory
If you are blind in Delaware, you may qualify for federal and state benefits including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and more. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for people with blindness.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with blindness, you must meet Social Security’s definition of legal blindness. Legal blindness means central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with corrective lenses, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. You must also meet work and income requirements for SSDI or SSI. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of blindness from a licensed eye doctor [ssa.gov/disability/eligibility 2025-11-05].
In Delaware, people who are blind may qualify for state programs like Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, and vocational rehabilitation. To get state benefits, you must meet Delaware’s income and disability criteria. For example, Delaware’s Medicaid program covers people who are blind and have low income. The state also offers the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver for people with disabilities, including blindness, who need support to live independently. You must apply through the Delaware Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance or the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Medical documentation from a licensed eye doctor is required [dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma 2025-11-05].
ABLE accounts let people with blindness save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit). Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and more. Open an account through the Delaware ABLE program or a national plan [able.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org 2025-11-05].
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. Delaware’s Medicaid income limit for people who are blind is higher than for other groups. Check the Delaware ASSIST portal for current limits. ABLE accounts do not count toward SSI or Medicaid resource limits.
You must report changes in income, work, or medical status to Social Security and Delaware Medicaid. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly to avoid problems [ssa.gov/disability/overpayments 2025-11-05].
Contact the Delaware Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired for support with applications and resources.
Legal blindness means central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with corrective lenses, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. This is the standard for federal disability programs [ssa.gov/disability/eligibility 2025-11-05].
If your vision meets Social Security’s definition of legal blindness, you may qualify. If not, you may still qualify for benefits if your vision loss prevents you from working. A doctor’s report is required [ssa.gov/disability/qualify 2025-11-05].
Apply for federal benefits through Social Security online or in person. Apply for state benefits like Medicaid through the Delaware ASSIST portal. You will need medical records from your eye doctor [dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma 2025-11-05].
You need a report from a licensed eye doctor that includes your visual acuity and field test results. This must show you meet the definition of legal blindness for federal programs [ssa.gov/disability/qualify 2025-11-05].
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you try working without losing benefits. Delaware’s Vocational Rehabilitation can help you find jobs and training [ssa.gov/work 2025-11-05].
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both cover blindness if you meet the medical criteria [ssa.gov/disability/eligibility 2025-11-05].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, Delaware offers Medicaid, Medicaid waivers, vocational rehab, and the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired. These programs provide medical, financial, and job support [dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma 2025-11-05].
Federal benefits can take 3–6 months to process. State benefits like Medicaid may be faster if you qualify. Keep copies of all applications and follow up regularly [ssa.gov/disability 2025-11-05].
Yes, Medicaid and vocational rehab may cover assistive devices like screen readers, Braille displays, and mobility aids. Ask your caseworker about available programs [dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma 2025-11-05].
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $18,000 per year for things like education, housing, and transportation [able.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org 2025-11-05].
