If you are blind in Massachusetts, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for blindness, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and have enough work credits. You must also have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration's definition of blindness and prevents you from working for at least 12 months [5].
For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet the SSA's definition of blindness. SSI is for people with low income, regardless of work history [5].
The SSA defines blindness 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 [5].
In Massachusetts, eligibility for SSDI and SSI is determined by MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS reviews your medical records, job history, education, and other information to decide if you qualify [3].
Massachusetts does not have a separate state disability program for blindness, but residents can access Medicaid waivers and other state supports if they qualify for federal benefits [4].
DDS uses a team of medical and mental health professionals to review your case. They may ask for more information or schedule you for a medical exam [3].
ABLE accounts let people with blindness save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Massachusetts offers the ABLEnow program [4].
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA's online portal or call your local office to report changes [5].
In 2025, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for blind SSDI recipients is $2,700 per month. This means you can earn up to this amount and still receive benefits [2].
Massachusetts offers work incentives for people with blindness, including trial work periods and extended eligibility. These help you try working without losing benefits [2].
In 2025, the SGA limit for blind SSDI recipients is $2,700 per month. If you earn more than this, your SSDI benefits may be affected [2].
Contact MassAbility DDS to start your application. You will need to provide medical records, work history, and other documents. DDS will review your case and decide if you qualify [3].
Yes, you can work and still receive benefits if your earnings are below the SGA limit. There are work incentives and trial work periods to help you try working without losing benefits [2].
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs have different eligibility rules and payment amounts [5].
Massachusetts does not have a separate state disability program for blindness, but residents can access Medicaid waivers, MassHealth, and ABLE accounts if they qualify for federal benefits [4].
The decision time varies, but it can take several months. DDS may ask for more information or schedule you for a medical exam during the process [3].
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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Yes, you may qualify for Medicaid if you are blind and receive SSDI, especially if your income is low. Contact MassHealth for more information [4].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits [4].
Yes, you must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA. Failing to report can lead to overpayments and penalties [5].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Contact MassAbility DDS or the SSA for information on the appeals process [3].
