If you have low vision in Nevada, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, plus Medicaid and other state supports. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months and have enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must also be expected to last at least 12 months. Both programs are run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and cover people with low vision if the condition is severe enough to meet SSA's definition of disability[1][7].
In Nevada, SSI recipients who are blind or elderly get a state supplement added to their federal SSI payment. This supplement is not available to all people with disabilities, but if you are blind or part of a couple where one partner is aged or blind, you may qualify. Nevada also provides Medicaid to SSI recipients, which covers vision care and other medical needs. Other state services include rehabilitation, home-delivered meals, and employment resources for people with disabilities[2][4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI and Medicaid. Nevada residents with low vision may qualify if their disability started before age 26. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other disability-related expenses[4].
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is about $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. Nevada's state supplement may increase this amount for those who are blind or elderly. SSDI has no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals in 2024 and expected to rise in 2025[3][5].
If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn too much or fail to report changes. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the SSA right away to discuss repayment options[5].
Contact the Nevada Bureau of Disability Adjudication for help with your disability claim. They can answer questions and guide you through the process[3].
Use the SSA's online tools to check if you qualify for SSDI or SSI. You can also use our SSI Income Estimator to see how much you might receive[2].
Yes, if your low vision is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. The Social Security Administration has specific criteria for vision loss, and Nevada follows these rules[1][7].
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs can help people with low vision if they meet the disability criteria[1][4].
Nevada adds a state supplement to SSI payments for those who are blind or elderly. This supplement is not available to all people with disabilities, but may apply if you are part of a couple where one partner is aged or blind, or if you live in an institution where medical assistance pays for more than half your care[2].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. Nevada residents can also apply for state benefits through Access Nevada and get help from the Bureau of Disability Adjudication[6][8].
You need eye exams, doctor's notes, and any other medical records that show how your low vision affects your ability to work. The SSA will review these records to decide if you qualify for benefits[7].
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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You can work, but your earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2024, this is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn more, your benefits may be reduced or stopped[3][5].
Yes, SSI recipients in Nevada usually get Medicaid, which covers vision care and other medical needs. SSDI recipients may qualify for Medicare after a waiting period[2][4].
Yes, SSI recipients may qualify for SNAP (food stamps). You can apply for SNAP at a Social Security office if everyone in your household is getting SSI, or at your local county health and human services office if not[2].
Nevada offers rehabilitation, independent living programs, home-delivered meals, transportation, and employment resources for people with disabilities, including those with low vision. Contact your local county health and human services office for more information[2][4].
The process can take several months. After you apply, the Bureau of Disability Adjudication will review your claim and may ask for more information. Responding quickly can help speed up the process[6].
