If you are blind in Idaho, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as Medicaid and state services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Idaho, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. For blindness, this means central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with the use of a correcting lens, or a visual field limitation in which the widest diameter of the visual field subtends an angle no greater than 20 degrees. You must also meet work and income requirements for SSDI or SSI. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, while SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both programs provide monthly payments and health coverage (Medicare for SSDI, Medicaid for SSI)[^1][^2][^4].
Idaho does not have its own state disability program for blindness, but residents can access federal benefits and state Medicaid programs. To qualify for Medicaid, you must meet financial eligibility and have a qualifying disability, such as blindness. Idaho’s Medicaid program offers special provisions for people with developmental disabilities, but blindness alone may qualify for Medicaid if you meet income and asset limits. The state also offers services through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation for people who are blind, including job training and support. If you are blind and have a developmental disability, you may qualify for additional services through Idaho’s Adult with Developmental Disabilities Program[^3][^4][^5].
ABLE accounts allow people with blindness to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use ABLE funds for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Idaho offers ABLE accounts through the ABLE United program[^5].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. SSDI has no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for blind individuals in 2024. These limits may increase slightly in 2025 due to inflation[^2][^4].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment or benefit suspension. Always report changes promptly to avoid penalties[^1][^2][^4].
Contact the Idaho Disability Determinations Service or your local Social Security office for help with your application. You can also reach out to the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation for support.
The SSA defines blindness as central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. This must be confirmed by a medical professional.
Yes, if you meet the work history requirements for SSDI and the income/resource limits for SSI, you may qualify for both programs. SSDI is based on work history, SSI on financial need.
For SSI, you can earn up to $943 per month in 2025. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than the SGA limit, which is $2,460 per month for blind individuals in 2024. These limits may increase slightly in 2025.
Idaho does not have a state disability program for blindness. Residents rely on federal programs like SSDI and SSI, as well as Medicaid and state services for support.
If you get SSI, you will receive Medicaid. If you get SSDI, you will receive Medicare after 24 months. Both programs provide health coverage for people who are blind.
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to work and keep your benefits. You can earn up to the SGA limit without losing benefits. Report any changes to avoid overpayments.
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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You can apply for Medicaid through Idaho Health and Welfare. If you are approved for SSI, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicaid. Otherwise, apply online or by phone.
Idaho offers job training and support through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. You may also qualify for home and community-based services if you have a developmental disability.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can use it for qualified expenses like education, housing, and transportation without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
Report changes in income, health, or living situation to the SSA by phone, online, or in person. Prompt reporting helps avoid overpayments and benefit suspension.
