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Kentucky • Sensory
People with low vision in Kentucky can access federal and state programs for cash, medical, and work support. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for low vision benefits in Kentucky.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. For SSI, your income and resources must be low. Low vision can qualify if it severely limits your ability to work or do daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific criteria to decide if your vision meets the definition of disability. If you are blind or have low vision, you may qualify for higher SGA limits and special work incentives. [^1][^2][^3][^4]
In Kentucky, people with low vision can get Medicaid, which covers vision services and habilitation for children. Kentucky Medicaid also covers services like occupational therapy and speech therapy for children with disabilities. Adults with low vision may qualify for Kentucky Medicaid if they meet income and disability requirements. Kentucky also offers ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. Some state programs may have additional requirements or offer extra support for people with sensory disabilities. [^5][^6][^7]
Kentucky offers ABLE accounts, which let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. You can use ABLE funds for disability-related expenses like medical care, education, and housing. To open an ABLE account, visit the Kentucky ABLE website or call 1-800-522-2253. [^6]
If your income or resources change, you must report it to the agency that pays your benefits. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. For SSI and SSDI, report changes online or by phone. For Medicaid, report changes to your local office. [^12]
Centauri Health Solutions offers free help applying for SSI/SSDI. Call 1-866-454-0411 for assistance.
Yes, if your low vision prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meets SSA's definition of disability, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. SSA defines legal blindness as vision that cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in the better eye, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. [^1][^2][^3]
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income. [^1][^2]
You need records from your eye doctor that show your vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in the better eye, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. [^3]
Yes, there are work incentives that let you try to work without losing benefits. In 2025, the SGA limit for blind individuals is $2,700 per month. [^4]
Yes, Kentucky Medicaid covers vision services and habilitation for children with disabilities. Adults may qualify based on income and disability. [^5]
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Kentucky offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. [^6]
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice on your specific situation.
You must report changes in income or resources to the agency that pays your benefits. For SSI and SSDI, report changes online or by phone. For Medicaid, report changes to your local office. [^12]
Yes, Centauri Health Solutions offers free help applying for SSI/SSDI. Call 1-866-454-0411 for assistance. [^8]
In 2025, the SGA limit for blind individuals is $2,700 per month. This means you can earn up to $2,700 without losing SSDI benefits. [^4]
Yes, children with low vision may qualify for Kentucky Medicaid if they meet income and disability requirements. Medicaid covers vision services and habilitation for children with disabilities. [^5]
