People with low vision in Massachusetts can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and work incentives. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and work history factors. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your payments.
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].
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].
Contact MassAbility DDS for help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
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].
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].
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].
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].
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].
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].
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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An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation[^3].
You must report changes in income or living situation to SSA. Failing to report changes can result in overpayments and penalties. Use the SSA website or contact MassAbility DDS to report changes[^3].
You need detailed medical records, including eye exams, treatment plans, and doctor’s notes. DDS will review these records to determine if your low vision qualifies for benefits[^2].
Yes, you can appeal a denial of disability benefits. Contact MassAbility DDS for information on the appeals process and deadlines[^2].
