Low Vision Benefits in Massachusetts: 2025 Guide

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on limited income and resources, and you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. Low vision is considered a disability if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities, even with treatment or correction[^5].

SSA uses a five-step process to decide if your low vision qualifies. They look at your medical records, work history, and whether you can do past or other jobs. If your vision meets SSA’s criteria for legal blindness or another listed impairment, you may qualify automatically[^5].

In Massachusetts, eligibility for SSI and SSDI is determined by MassAbility Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS reviews your medical records, job history, education, and any information from doctors, mental health providers, and family. For low vision, DDS will consider how your vision affects your ability to work and live independently[^2].

Massachusetts also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those with low vision. These waivers can help pay for services like home care, assistive technology, and transportation. To qualify, you must meet both federal and state criteria, including income and asset limits[^4].

• Gather medical records and job history.
• Contact MassAbility DDS to start your application.
• Submit your application online, by phone, or in person.
• Include all required documents, such as proof of income and vision tests.
• Follow up with DDS for any additional information they need[^2].

• Step 1: Collect all medical records related to your low vision, including eye exams, treatment plans, and doctor’s notes.
• Step 2: Prepare a detailed job history for the last 15 years, listing the physical requirements of each job.
• Step 3: Contact MassAbility DDS by phone or visit their office in Boston or Worcester to start your application[^2].
• Step 4: Submit your application online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. Include all required documents, such as proof of income, vision tests, and any other supporting evidence.
• Step 5: DDS will review your application and may request additional information or schedule you for an examination.
• Step 6: Wait for a decision. If approved, you will receive benefits. If denied, you can appeal the decision[^2].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Provides monthly payments to people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to disability.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides monthly payments to people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.
• Medicaid: Provides health coverage to people with disabilities, including those with low vision[^5].

• Massachusetts Medicaid Waivers: These programs help people with disabilities, including low vision, pay for services like home care, assistive technology, and transportation. To qualify, you must meet both federal and state criteria, including income and asset limits[^4].
• State SSI Supplement: Massachusetts pays a small state supplement to SSI recipients, increasing their monthly payment.
• MassAbility DDS: Handles eligibility decisions for SSI and SSDI in Massachusetts. They review medical records, job history, and other information to determine if you qualify for benefits[^2].

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In Massachusetts, you can open an ABLE account to save for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation[^3].

For 2025, the maximum SSI payment is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Income is counted in the month it’s received and includes cash, in-kind payments, and deemed income from a spouse or sponsor[^3].

If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to SSA. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA website or contact MassAbility DDS to report changes[^3].

• MassAbility Disability Determination Services
  Phone: 617-727-1600 or 617-654-7485

  Website

  Boston and Worcester locations available.

• Can low vision qualify for disability benefits in Massachusetts?

  Yes, low vision can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it severely limits your ability to work or perform daily activities. You must meet SSA’s definition of disability and provide medical evidence of your condition[^5].

• What is the maximum SSI payment in Massachusetts for 2025?

  The maximum SSI payment in 2025 is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Massachusetts also pays a small state supplement to SSI recipients[^3].

• How do I apply for disability benefits in Massachusetts?

  You can apply for SSI or SSDI online, by phone, or in person. Contact MassAbility DDS to start your application and provide all required documents, such as medical records and job history[^2].

• What is the SGA limit for low vision in 2025?

  The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for non-blind individuals in 2025 is expected to be slightly higher than $1,470/month. For blind individuals, it is $2,460/month. Exceeding these limits may affect your benefits[^1].

• What are Medicaid waivers for low vision in Massachusetts?

  Medicaid waivers in Massachusetts help people with disabilities, including low vision, pay for services like home care, assistive technology, and transportation. To qualify, you must meet both federal and state criteria[^4].

• Can I work while receiving SSI or SSDI in Massachusetts?

  Yes, you can work and still receive SSI or SSDI, but there are income limits. The SGA limit determines how much you can earn without losing benefits. Work incentives allow some earned income without losing benefits[^1].