This guide covers federal and South Dakota-specific benefits for people who are blind, including eligibility, how to apply, and key programs like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and work incentives.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if you are blind, you must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of blindness and have enough work credits. SSDI is for people who have paid Social Security taxes and have a disability expected to last at least one year or result in death. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet the SSA’s definition of blindness and have limited income and resources. Both programs require that your blindness prevents you from doing substantial work. [^1][^2]
In South Dakota, people who are blind may qualify for additional benefits and work incentives. The state offers Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities, which allows individuals with significant disabilities to work and keep Medicaid coverage. South Dakota also follows federal rules for SSI and SSDI, but has a state-specific threshold for continued Medicaid coverage when SSI cash payments stop due to work. For 2025, this threshold is $53,022 per year. [^2][^3]
ABLE accounts let people who are blind save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can deposit up to $18,000 per year (2025 limit) and the account grows tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are also tax-free. South Dakota residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program or another state’s program if South Dakota’s is not available. [^4]
If your income, resources, or medical status changes, you must report it to the Social Security Administration and South Dakota Department of Social Services. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. If you receive an overpayment, you may request a waiver or set up a repayment plan. Always keep records of all changes and communications. [^5]
If you are blind and want to work, you can deduct work expenses from your earnings to determine SGA. You may also set aside income for work goals through a PASS. These incentives help you keep more of your benefits while working.
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for blind individuals in 2025 is $2,460 per month. This is higher than the limit for non-blind individuals, which is $1,470 per month. Earnings above SGA may affect your SSDI benefits.
Yes, you can work and still get SSI or SSDI if you are blind. The SGA limit for blind individuals is higher, and you can deduct work expenses from your earnings to determine if you are performing at SGA. You may also qualify for work incentives like PASS.
The income limit for Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities in South Dakota is $53,022 per year in 2025. If your income is below this threshold, you may continue to get Medicaid even if your SSI cash payment stops due to work.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. For Medicaid, apply through South Dakota’s Department of Social Services. Gather medical records and work history before applying.
A PASS allows you to set aside income and resources for a work goal, which may make you eligible for SSI or increase your SSI payment. You must have a plan approved by the Social Security Administration.
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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Yes, if you work and are blind, you may qualify for Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities in South Dakota. If your SSI cash payment stops due to work, you may still get Medicaid if your income is below the state threshold.
Impairment Related Work Expenses are costs for items or services you need to work because of your disability. You can deduct these expenses from your gross earnings to determine if you are performing at SGA.
If you medically recover while in a vocational rehab program, you may continue to receive benefits until the program ends. This is called Continued Payment under a Vocational Rehabilitation Program.
Yes, you can save money in an ABLE account if you are blind. ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. The annual deposit limit is $18,000 in 2025.
For Social Security purposes, blindness means central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correction, or a visual field of 20 degrees or less. This definition is used for both SSI and SSDI.
