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Georgia • Sensory
People with low vision in Georgia can access federal and state benefits, including Medicaid, SSI, and ABLE accounts. Georgia’s new Medicaid waiver and ABLE program help Georgians save and get coverage without losing benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
People with low vision may qualify for federal disability benefits if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), children must have a medical condition that results in marked and severe functional limitations, and their income and resources must be limited. Adults must meet similar criteria and not earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) in 2025. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available for those who have worked and paid into Social Security and meet the disability criteria. Medicaid is available for those with low income and qualifying disabilities, including low vision, and can be accessed through SSI or state-specific waivers [5].
In Georgia, people with low vision may qualify for Medicaid through the state’s new Medicaid waiver, which expands income limits for people with disabilities who do not receive SSI. The waiver also provides reasonable accommodations for those who cannot meet work requirements, including referrals to vocational rehabilitation programs. Georgia’s STABLE program (ABLE account) allows residents with disabilities, including low vision, to save and invest up to $19,000 per year (and more if employed) without losing needs-based benefits. Eligibility for the STABLE account requires that the disability began before age 26. Georgia also offers short- and long-term disability insurance for state employees, which can provide up to 60% of pay if unable to work due to disability [1][2][6].
Georgia STABLE (ABLE account) allows residents with disabilities, including low vision, to save and invest up to $19,000 per year (and up to $15,060 more if employed) for qualified expenses. The account’s growth is tax-free, and contributions may qualify for a state income tax deduction. Eligibility requires that the disability began before age 26. An Authorized Legal Representative can open an account for someone who cannot do so themselves [2].
For SSI in 2025, children with low vision must not earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). Adults must not earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind). Medicaid income limits are higher under Georgia’s new Medicaid waiver, which expands coverage for people with disabilities who do not receive SSI [1][5].
It is important to report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility for SSI, SSDI, and Medicaid. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and loss of benefits. For more information, see the guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes [internal link].
Georgia’s new Medicaid waiver expands coverage for people with low vision who do not receive SSI. Apply now to see if you qualify for expanded income limits and reasonable accommodations [1].
Open a Georgia STABLE (ABLE) account to save and invest up to $19,000 per year (and more if employed) without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other needs-based benefits [2].
Yes, people with low vision may qualify for SSI if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations and their income and resources are limited. Children must meet these criteria, and adults must not earn more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) in 2025 [5].
Georgia’s Medicaid waiver expands income limits for people with disabilities, including low vision, who do not receive SSI. It also provides reasonable accommodations for those who cannot meet work requirements, including referrals to vocational rehabilitation programs [1].
A Georgia STABLE account is an ABLE account that allows Georgians with disabilities, including low vision, to save and invest up to $19,000 per year (and more if employed) without losing needs-based benefits. Eligibility requires that the disability began before age 26 [2].
Yes, you can work and still receive SSI if your earnings do not exceed $1,620 per month (or $2,700 if blind) in 2025. There are work incentives and programs to help you keep benefits while working [5].
Georgia offers short- and long-term disability insurance for state employees, which can replace up to 60% of pay if unable to work due to disability. It includes rehab incentives and up to $25,000 for accommodations [6].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult official sources or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
You can apply for Medicaid through Georgia’s Medicaid waiver or regular Medicaid. The waiver expands income limits for people with disabilities who do not receive SSI. Apply online or at your local Department of Human Services office [1].
Vocational rehabilitation programs in Georgia help people with disabilities, including low vision, find employment. If you cannot meet work requirements for Medicaid, you may be referred to these programs to qualify for Medicaid [1].
Yes, you can save money without losing SSI or Medicaid by opening a Georgia STABLE (ABLE) account. This account allows you to save and invest up to $19,000 per year (and more if employed) without losing needs-based benefits [2].
Families should monitor state education funding and special education programs for children with low vision. Advocate for your child’s educational rights and stay informed about changes in state policy and funding [4].
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to Social Security or your state benefits office to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and loss of benefits [internal link].
