If you are blind in Kansas, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits due to blindness, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. For SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, and be blind or have a severe disability. Blindness is defined as having central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correction, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. Both programs require medical documentation and proof of disability duration. [^1]
If you are blind, you may also qualify for special work incentives and higher income limits under SSI. These rules help you keep benefits while working or saving. [^2]
In Kansas, people who are blind may qualify for additional state benefits beyond federal programs. You may be eligible for Medicaid waivers that cover home and community-based services, such as personal care and assistive technology. Kansas also offers the ABLE Savings Program, which allows individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. [^3]
State-specific programs include the Kansas Assistive Technology Loan Program (K-LOAN), which provides low-interest loans for assistive devices, and the Ticket to Work program, which supports career development for Social Security disability beneficiaries. [^4]
Eligibility for state programs often depends on income, resources, and proof of disability. Some programs require enrollment in federal disability programs as a prerequisite.
The Kansas ABLE Savings Program allows individuals with disabilities to save for qualified expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can open an account at savewithable.com/ks/home.html. Kansas offers an empowerment grant of $100 for new accounts opened in 2025. [^3]
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. Kansas may have additional state supplements. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must have a qualifying work history. [^1]
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Use the SSA’s online portal or contact your local office to report changes. [^2]
Contact your local Social Security office or a Kansas disability resource center for help with applications and questions.
Blindness is defined as having central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correction, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. This definition is used by the Social Security Administration for disability benefits.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local SSA office. You will need medical records and proof of income.
Medicaid waivers in Kansas provide home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including those who are blind. These services can include personal care, assistive technology, and more.
Yes, you can save money through the Kansas ABLE Savings Program without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. ABLE accounts allow you to save for qualified disability expenses.
The Ticket to Work program supports career development for Social Security disability beneficiaries. It is free and voluntary, and helps people with disabilities progress toward financial independence.
You can get assistive technology through the Kansas Assistive Technology Loan Program (K-LOAN), which provides low-interest loans for devices. Contact K-LOAN at (866) 465-2826 for more information.
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 KBOR Long Term Disability Plan provides long-term disability benefits for eligible employees in Kansas, including those who are blind. Benefits are 60% of monthly compensation, with a minimum of $100 and a maximum of $5,000 per month.
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Use the SSA’s online portal or contact your local office to report changes.
The federal income limit for SSI is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. Kansas may have additional state supplements.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits in Kansas. The Ticket to Work program and SSI work incentives help you keep benefits while working or saving.
