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Rhode Island • Sensory
People with low vision in Rhode Island can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and vocational rehabilitation. Eligibility depends on income, work history, and medical documentation. State programs also offer support for independent living, durable medical equipment, and financial assistance.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical evidence showing your low vision meets Social Security’s definition of disability. You can be eligible for both SSDI and SSI at the same time if you meet the criteria for each.
For SSDI, you must have earned enough work credits. For SSI, your income and assets must be below set limits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific criteria to determine if your low vision is severe enough to qualify. Medical records, vision tests, and doctor statements are required.
Source: SSA.gov, Disability Determination Services RI [Accessed: 2025-11-06]
In Rhode Island, people with low vision may also qualify for state-specific programs. Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) provides short-term wage replacement if you cannot work due to a non-work-related illness or injury, including vision loss. To qualify for TDI, you must have paid into the TDI fund and earned at least $18,000 in your base period (or meet alternate criteria). You must be unemployed for at least 7 days due to your condition.
Rhode Island’s Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS) offers vocational rehabilitation for those whose low vision is a barrier to employment. Eligibility requires a substantial impairment, need for services, and ability to benefit from them. ORS can help with job training, assistive technology, and durable medical equipment.
Source: RI DLT, RI ORS [Accessed: 2025-11-06]
Source: SSA.gov, RI DLT, RI ORS [Accessed: 2025-11-06]
Source: SSA.gov, Medicaid.gov [Accessed: 2025-11-06]
Source: RI DLT, RI ORS, RI DHS [Accessed: 2025-11-06]
An ABLE account lets people with low vision save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can save up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit). Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and more. Rhode Island residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program.
Source: ABLE National Resource Center [Accessed: 2025-11-06]
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,550 per month (2025) from substantial gainful activity. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program and household size. For TDI, you must have earned at least $18,000 in your base period or meet alternate criteria.
Source: SSA.gov, RI DLT [Accessed: 2025-11-06]
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you must report it and may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to SSA or state agencies promptly. Failure to report can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Keep records of all communications and payments.
Source: SSA.gov, RI DLT [Accessed: 2025-11-06]
Contact the Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services at 401-421-7005 for help with vocational rehabilitation and disability determination.
Only use official phone numbers and websites when applying for benefits. The only TDI customer service number is (401)-462-8420.
Yes, low vision can qualify for SSI or SSDI if it prevents you from working and meets Social Security’s definition of disability. You must provide medical evidence and meet income or work history requirements.
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records and proof of income.
TDI provides short-term wage replacement for non-work-related illness or injury, including vision loss. You must have paid into the TDI fund and earned at least $18,000 in your base period.
TDI provides up to 30 weeks of benefits for non-work-related illness or injury. Benefits are not taxable and are funded by employee contributions.
Vocational rehabilitation helps people with low vision prepare for, obtain, or maintain employment. Services include job training, assistive technology, and durable medical equipment.
Yes, if you qualify for SSI or meet Medicaid income and asset limits, you can get Medicaid. Medicaid covers health care, vision services, and durable medical equipment.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult official sources or a benefits expert for personalized advice.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $18,000 per year for housing, education, transportation, and more.
If your application is denied, you have 60 days to file an appeal with the Social Security Administration. You can request a face-to-face hearing and submit additional evidence.
Yes, vocational rehabilitation and Medicaid waivers can help pay for durable medical equipment like magnifiers, screen readers, and mobility aids for people with low vision.
Rhode Island offers SNAP for food assistance, General Public Assistance for cash aid, and Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. The Developmental Disabilities Council also provides support.
