Oregon residents with blindness can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, benefit amounts, and special rules for people who are blind.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) as a person who is blind, you must have worked enough to earn Social Security credits and have a medical condition (blindness) that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition. The 2025 substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit for blind applicants is $2,700 per month, which is higher than for other disabilities[2]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources (under $2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple[2]), and meet the medical definition of blindness. For both SSI and SSDI, your benefit amount depends on your work history and/or income. Children under 18 with blindness may qualify for SSI, but SSDI is generally for adults with work credits[4][6].
Oregon does not directly pay its own disability cash benefit for blindness, but you may qualify for Oregon Medicaid for health coverage and other supports. The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) reviews applications for federal disability benefits and connects you to local resources[4]. There is no additional state cash benefit for blindness, but Oregon ABLE accounts (with higher 2025 ABLE to Work contribution limits up to $15,060 or your wages, whichever is less[7]) let you save money tax-free without affecting SSI and Medicaid eligibility. Always check with Oregon DHS for the latest state-specific rules and supports.
Oregon does not offer a separate state-funded cash benefit for blindness, but offers important health and support services: - Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid): Covers doctor visits, prescriptions, and other health needs for eligible residents with blindness[4]. Apply through Oregon DHS. - Oregon ABLE Savings Program: Lets you save up to $15,060 from work in 2025 (or your wages, whichever is less) without affecting SSI and Medicaid eligibility[7]. - Educational and Vocational Support: While recent federal funding cuts have impacted some programs[3], Oregon’s vocational rehabilitation services may still offer job training and support. Contact the Oregon Commission for the Blind for tailored resources. Always check directly with Oregon DHS for the latest program updates and local supports.
Oregon ABLE Savings Program lets people with blindness (and other disabilities) save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 from your earnings if you work, or the total of your wages—whichever is less[7]. This is a great tool to build financial independence and plan for the future.
For SSDI, if you are blind, the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit in 2025 is $2,700 per month—higher than for non-blind disabilities[2]. For SSI, income limits are lower, but the SSA excludes some income when calculating eligibility. Always report all income to SSA and Oregon DHS.
You must report changes in income, work, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and Oregon DHS to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in benefit reductions or demands to repay. Read our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes.
If you are blind, you can earn up to $2,700 per month in 2025 and still qualify for SSDI. This is higher than the limit for non-blind disabilities[2].
You must tell Social Security and Oregon DHS about any changes in your income, work, or living situation right away. Not reporting changes can result in overpayments and benefit loss.
If you are blind, you can earn up to $2,700 per month (2025 SGA limit) and still qualify for SSDI. This is higher than for non-blind disabilities[2].
Oregon does not pay a separate state disability cash benefit for blindness, but you may qualify for Oregon Medicaid and ABLE accounts. For cash assistance, SSI and SSDI are your main options[4].
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person. Oregon DHS reviews applications for federal benefits and can help you with the process[4].
Yes, most SSI recipients in Oregon automatically qualify for the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) at the same time[4].
Oregon ABLE accounts let people with blindness save up to $15,060 from work in 2025 (or your actual wages, whichever is less) without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility[7].
Yes, you can work, but your SSI payment will be reduced based on your earnings. Not all income counts against your benefit. See [SSI & SSDI Work Incentives](/guides/work-incentives).
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 have the right to appeal. The process can take months. Keep copies of all documents and follow appeal deadlines carefully.
Children with blindness may qualify for SSI if the family’s income and resources are low. No special state cash benefit exists, but Oregon offers Medicaid and school supports.
Contact your local Oregon Department of Human Services office or the Social Security Administration directly for application help[4].
Report changes to Social Security and Oregon DHS immediately to avoid overpayments and benefit interruptions.
