Social Security provides various benefits for impairments affecting an individual’s ability to work. Some conditions might not qualify based on specific rules set by the agency. However, certain health problems could have symptoms that significantly affect workers and their ability to make a living, such as vision impairments.
Social Security recognizes how challenging it could be to work when experiencing vision problems. It has a particular set of rules to allow visually impaired workers to receive their benefits if their condition impacts their capacity to perform their duties. Complete loss of vision or blindness could be eligible through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs.
Still, the rules to qualify for these programs could vary depending on the worker’s medical condition and record. Social Security might allow workers to receive blindness benefits if treatments cannot improve their vision to over 20/200. A case might also qualify for blindness benefits if the worker’s visual field is below 20 degrees, lasting at least a year.
Additionally, workers could receive benefits even if their conditions do not pass Social Security’s definition of blindness. However, qualification might depend on the worker’s contributions and if their income is below the specified limit.
Determining eligibility for benefits
When it comes to applying for Social Security benefits, it is crucial to check regulations for eligibility. Some rules only apply based on the applicant’s medical history and the relevant impairments.
Fortunately, Social Security has special rules to include less severe cases based on other factors, such as income and how much it might affect work performance. Still, each case could be unique, requiring a more thorough assessment to determine which program is appropriate.