If you are blind in Vermont, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as food and medical support. Vermont does not have a state disability program, but federal rules make it easier for people who are blind to get help. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
People who are blind in Vermont can qualify for federal disability benefits. The main programs are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI is for people with limited income and resources, including those who are blind at any age. SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. To qualify for SSI, you must have little or no income and few resources (less than $2,000 if single, $3,000 if married). Your home and usually your car are not counted. For SSDI, you must have a qualifying work history and a disability that meets Social Security’s definition, which includes legal blindness.
Legal 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. Social Security uses strict medical standards to determine if you are legally blind. You must apply for any other government benefits for which you may be eligible. You must live in the U.S. to receive SSI or SSDI.
Vermont does not have a state disability program for blindness. Only five states have such programs. Vermonters who are blind must apply for federal programs like SSI and SSDI. However, Vermont does offer special support for people with disabilities through programs like 3SquaresVT (SNAP). If you are blind and receive disability benefits, you may not have to meet income limits for 3SquaresVT, and there may not be a resource test. You may also get a higher monthly benefit if you have out-of-pocket medical costs. Vermont also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can help with long-term care. Legal Services Vermont and the Vermont Communication Support Project can help with legal and communication needs related to disability benefits.
Vermont does not have a state disability program for blindness. However, Vermont offers several programs that can help people who are blind:
3SquaresVT (SNAP): Food assistance with special rules for people with disabilities. If you are blind and receive disability benefits, you may not have to meet income limits and may get a higher monthly benefit if you have out-of-pocket medical costs.
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Vermont offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These waivers can help with long-term care, personal care, and other supports for people who are blind.
Legal Services Vermont: Provides free legal help for people with disabilities, including those who are blind. They can help with appeals, legal issues, and communication support.
Vermont Communication Support Project: Provides free communication support for people with disabilities in court, administrative hearings, and related meetings.
Developmental Disability Services: Vermont offers services for people with developmental disabilities, including those who are blind. These services include case management, residential support, and more.
ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities, including those who are blind. You can use an ABLE account to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Vermont offers ABLE accounts through the ABLE United program. You can open an account online at ableunited.com.
For SSI, the income limit is $2,000 for a single person and $3,000 for a married couple. Your home and usually your car are not counted. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must have a qualifying work history. For 3SquaresVT (SNAP), if you are blind and receive disability benefits, you may not have to meet income limits.
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and the Vermont Department for Children and Families. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. For more information, see our guide on avoiding overpayments and reporting changes.
Legal Services Vermont offers free legal help for people with disabilities, including those who are blind. Call 1-800-889-2047 or fill out their online form for help with appeals, legal issues, and more.
The Vermont Communication Support Project provides free communication support for people with disabilities in court, administrative hearings, and related meetings. Call 1-888-686-8277 or email csp@disabilityrightsvt.org.
Legal 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. Social Security uses strict medical standards to determine if you are legally blind.
Yes, you can get SSI if you are blind and have limited income and resources. SSI is a federal program for people who are blind, disabled, or 65 or older with limited income and resources.
Yes, you can get SSDI if you are blind and have a qualifying work history. SSDI is a federal program for people who have worked and paid into Social Security.
No, Vermont does not have a state disability program for blindness. Only five states have such programs. Vermonters who are blind must apply for federal programs like SSI and SSDI.
You can apply for 3SquaresVT (SNAP) online at mybenefits.vermont.gov, by phone, or in person. If you are blind and receive disability benefits, you may not have to meet income limits and may get a higher monthly benefit if you have out-of-pocket medical costs.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including those who are blind. Vermont offers ABLE accounts through the ABLE United program. You can open an account online at ableunited.com.
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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Legal Services Vermont provides free legal help for people with disabilities, including those who are blind. You can call them at 1-800-889-2047 or fill out their online form for help with appeals, legal issues, and more.
The Vermont Communication Support Project provides free communication support for people with disabilities in court, administrative hearings, and related meetings. You can call them at 1-888-686-8277 or email csp@disabilityrightsvt.org.
Yes, Vermont offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. These waivers can help with long-term care, personal care, and other supports for people who are blind.
You must report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the Social Security Administration and the Vermont Department for Children and Families. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person.
