Being legally blind affects just about everything a person does from day to day. And if the blindness occurred recently, many normal activities may become difficult, if not impossible. For these reasons, the Social Security Administration (SSA) disability program provides monthly benefit assistance for legally blind persons who qualify.
Qualifying For SSA Benefits With Blindness
But did you know that the SSA disability offers different rules for the blind or those who have low vision? We have compiled a list for you:
- If you are not legally blind, but vision problems, combined with other health problems, prevent you from working, you may still receive benefits.
- If you are legally blind and do not have enough credits to qualify for SSA disability benefits, you may be able to qualify based on the earnings of your parents or spouse.
- If you are legally blind, but still working, have not applied for benefits and are earning less money due to your blindness, a special rule may apply to you: The SSA will calculate your future benefit excluding the years you earned less. This means you can get a better benefit when you do apply.
- The SSA offers “work incentives” to the legally blind. If you are already receiving benefits, you can earn as much as $1,690 a month in 2012 and still receive your monthly checks. The benefit is only $1,010 for non-blind disabled workers.
- After age 55, if your earnings exceed the $1,690 limit, your benefits will only be suspended, not terminated, if the work you are doing requires less skill and ability than what you did before this age. And, for any month your earnings fall below the limit, you will receive disability benefits.
Apply For Benefits in Massachusetts
If you have applied for Social Security disability benefits in New England and been denied, or if you have any problems with taking advantage of these special disability rules for the legally blind, contact the specialists at Keefe Disability Law. We can help you fight an unfair decision or review your case to see if you are getting what you are entitled to.
Are You Looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney in Boston, MA?
If you are looking to apply for social security disability, you need to speak with an experienced social security disability lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Natick Office directly at 888.904.6847 to schedule your free consultation.
