If you have low vision in Missouri, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, 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) with low vision, you must meet the Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of disability. For adults, this means your vision loss must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA uses specific criteria for vision, such as visual acuity and visual field limitations. For children, the rules are different and focus on how the disability affects daily activities. You must also meet income and resource limits for SSI, but not for SSDI. SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs may be available if you meet the rules for each.
Source: SSA Disability Qualifications (accessed 2025-11-06)
In Missouri, people with low vision may qualify for additional state benefits and services. These include Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with daily living and medical needs. Missouri also offers the MO ABLE program, which allows people with disabilities to save money without losing federal benefits. To qualify for state programs, you must meet both federal and state eligibility rules. For example, Missouri Medicaid waivers may require a functional assessment and proof of disability. The MO ABLE program requires proof of disability and Missouri residency. State programs may have waiting lists and specific application processes. It's important to check with the Missouri Department of Social Services and the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council for the latest information and requirements.
Source: Missouri Department of Social Services (accessed 2025-11-06), Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (accessed 2025-11-06)
Source: SSA Apply for Benefits (accessed 2025-11-06), Missouri Department of Social Services (accessed 2025-11-06), MO ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-06)
Source: SSA Disability Programs (accessed 2025-11-06)
Source: Missouri Department of Social Services (accessed 2025-11-06), Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (accessed 2025-11-06), Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation (accessed 2025-11-06)
The MO ABLE program lets people with disabilities save money in a tax-advantaged account without losing federal benefits like SSI or SSDI. To qualify, you must have a qualifying disability and Missouri residency. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and assistive technology. There are annual and lifetime contribution limits. The program is managed by the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council.
Source: MO ABLE Program (accessed 2025-11-06)
Source: SSA SGA Limits (accessed 2025-11-06), Missouri Department of Social Services (accessed 2025-11-06)
It's important to report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to the SSA and Missouri agencies. This helps avoid overpayments and ensures you get the right benefits. If you receive an overpayment, you may need to repay the amount or have your benefits reduced. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. Keep records of all communications and payments.
Source: SSA Reporting Changes (accessed 2025-11-06), Missouri Department of Social Services (accessed 2025-11-06)
SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs may be available if you meet the rules for each. SSDI has no income limit, but SSI does. Both programs may have higher limits for blind individuals.
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of disability. For state programs like Medicaid waivers or MO ABLE, contact the Missouri Department of Social Services or the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council.
In 2025, there will be a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for SSDI and SSI benefits. The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit will also increase to $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. These changes help keep benefits in line with inflation.
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals. Exceeding this limit may affect your benefits.
Missouri offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, the MO ABLE program for saving money, vocational rehabilitation services, and other support programs. These programs may have waiting lists and specific eligibility requirements.
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 maximum SSDI payment in Missouri in 2025 is $4,555 per month. The federal SSI payment is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Missouri may add a state supplement. Income limits are higher for blind individuals.
The MO ABLE program lets people with disabilities save money in a tax-advantaged account without losing federal benefits. To qualify, you must have a qualifying disability and Missouri residency. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses.
Yes, you must report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to the SSA and Missouri agencies. This helps avoid overpayments and ensures you get the right benefits. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person.
Yes, you may be able to get both SSDI and SSI benefits if you meet the rules for each program. This is called concurrent benefits. The SSA will determine your eligibility after you apply.
To get a Medicaid waiver in Missouri, you must meet eligibility requirements, complete a functional assessment, and provide proof of disability. Contact the Missouri Department of Social Services for more information and to start the application process.
