If you have low vision in Michigan, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as State Disability Assistance (SDA). These programs can help with monthly cash, health coverage, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a qualifying disability that limits your ability to work and have paid Social Security taxes through prior work. For low vision, the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific criteria to determine if your vision loss is severe enough to meet their definition of disability. You generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. SSDI is not based on income or assets, but on your work history and the severity of your disability.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources. You do not need a work history. For low vision, you must meet SSA’s definition of disability and have very limited income and assets (less than $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples). SSI is available to U.S. citizens and certain qualified non-citizens.
Both SSDI and SSI recipients may be eligible for Medicaid or Medicare, depending on their situation [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
In Michigan, adults with low vision may qualify for State Disability Assistance (SDA), which provides monthly cash assistance. To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant, live in Michigan, and meet the state’s disability criteria. SDA is not available if you receive cash assistance from another state. Some non-citizen adults and children may qualify if they meet specific immigration requirements.
Michigan also offers a state supplement to SSI for eligible residents, which can increase your monthly benefit. SSI recipients in Michigan are automatically eligible for Medicaid, which covers vision-related services and other health needs. SDA recipients may also qualify for Medicaid, depending on their situation [Michigan.gov, 2025-11-06].
Michigan residents with low vision can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. ABLE accounts allow you to save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Learn more about Michigan’s ABLE program and how to apply [Michigan.gov, 2025-11-06].
It is important to report any changes in your income, assets, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Report changes to Social Security for SSDI/SSI, and to MDHHS for SDA. Keep records of all reports and communications. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency to discuss repayment options [Michigan.gov, 2025-11-06; SSA.gov, 2025-11-06].
Contact a Michigan Benefit-to-Work (B2W) Coach for free help with disability benefits and work incentives. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Yes, you can work and still receive SSDI or SSI, but there are income limits. For SSDI, you can earn up to the SGA limit ($1,530/month for non-blind, $2,550/month for blind in 2025). For SSI, your income and assets must stay below the program limits. Work incentives allow you to test employment without losing benefits.
SSDI is for people with a qualifying disability and a work history. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs have different eligibility rules and benefit amounts. SSI recipients in Michigan are automatically eligible for Medicaid.
You can apply for SDA online through Michigan’s MI Bridges portal or at your local MDHHS office. You will need to provide proof of disability and financial information. SDA is available to adults with disabilities who meet Michigan’s criteria.
SSI recipients in Michigan are automatically eligible for Medicaid. SSDI recipients may qualify for Medicare after a 24-month waiting period. SDA recipients may also qualify for Medicaid, depending on their situation. Medicaid covers vision-related services and other health needs.
Yes, you may be eligible for both SSDI and SSI if your SSDI benefit is low and you meet the financial requirements for SSI. This is called concurrent benefits. SSI can help make up the difference if your SSDI payment is below the SSI maximum.
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 is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Michigan residents can save up to $17,000 per year for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
Report changes in income, assets, or living situation to Social Security for SSDI/SSI, and to MDHHS for SDA. Keep records of all reports and communications. Reporting changes helps avoid overpayments and ensures you receive the correct benefits.
Michigan offers vocational rehabilitation through Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS), specialized services through the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP), and job training through Michigan Works! One-Stop Service Centers. These programs can help with employment, independent living, and accessing benefits.
Some non-citizens may qualify for SSDI, SSI, or SDA if they meet specific immigration requirements. U.S. citizens and certain qualified legal immigrants are eligible. Contact MDHHS or a legal aid organization for more information.
If you are denied, you can appeal the decision. The appeals process includes several levels, and you may want to seek help from a legal aid organization or benefits coach. Keep all documentation and follow the instructions provided by the agency.
