If you are blind in Missouri, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSDI, SSI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what changes are coming in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to blindness, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of blindness. This means your vision is 20/200 or worse in your better eye, even with glasses, or your field of vision is 20 degrees or less. For SSDI, you need enough work credits. For SSI, your income and resources must be below the federal limits. In 2025, the SGA limit for blind individuals is $2,700 per month, which is higher than for non-blind disabled people. This means you can earn more and still keep your benefits. The SSA also considers your ability to work and your medical condition. [^1][^2][^3]
In Missouri, blind individuals may qualify for additional state benefits and services. Missouri Medicaid (MO HealthNet) covers medical care for people with disabilities, including blindness. The income limit for MO HealthNet for the Blind is $15,650 per year for a single person in 2025. Missouri also offers the MO ABLE program, which lets you save money without losing federal benefits. To qualify for MO ABLE, you must have a disability that started before age 26. The program is open to residents of any state, but Missouri residents get extra tax benefits. [^4][^5][^6]
The MO ABLE program lets you save up to $17,000 per year in a tax-free account. Missouri residents get a state tax deduction of up to $16,000 per year. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like education, housing, and transportation. The account does not affect your eligibility for SSDI, SSI, or Medicaid. [^5][^6]
You must report changes in income, work, or health to SSA and MO HealthNet. If you don’t, you may get an overpayment and have to pay it back. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a payment plan. [^1][^2][^4]
In 2025, expect a 2.5% COLA increase and higher SGA limits for blind individuals. This means your benefits will go up and you can earn more while keeping your benefits.
Missouri residents with disabilities can save up to $16,000 per year in an ABLE account and get a state tax deduction. This is a great way to save without losing benefits.
The federal definition of blindness is vision of 20/200 or worse in your better eye, even with glasses, or a field of vision of 20 degrees or less. This definition is used for both SSDI and SSI eligibility.
In 2025, the SGA limit for blind individuals is $2,700 per month. If you earn more than this, your SSDI benefits may be affected. This is higher than the limit for non-blind disabled people.
The maximum SSDI payment in 2025 is about $3,917 per month. This amount is the same nationwide and is based on your work history and the 2025 COLA increase.
You can apply for Missouri Medicaid (MO HealthNet) online at dss.mo.gov, by phone, or at a local office. You will need to provide proof of income, disability, and residency.
The MO ABLE program is a tax-free savings account for people with disabilities. Missouri residents get a state tax deduction. You must have a disability that started before age 26 to qualify.
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health to SSA and MO HealthNet. If you don’t, you may get an overpayment and have to pay it back.
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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The Missouri Commission for the Blind offers vocational rehab, training, and support services for blind Missourians. They can help you find work, learn new skills, and live independently.
Yes, you can get both SSDI and SSI if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs. SSDI is based on work history, and SSI is based on income and resources.
The income limit for MO HealthNet for the Blind in 2025 is $15,650 per year for a single person. This limit is higher than for other Medicaid programs.
The 2025 COLA increase is 2.5%. This means your SSDI or SSI payment will go up by 2.5% to help keep up with inflation. The increase is automatic and does not require a new application.
