Applying for Social Security Disability for Vision Loss or Low Vision in Louisiana
Dealing with vision loss or struggling with low vision can be challenging, but obtaining benefits could help you access the treatment and assistance you need. Our experienced and compassionate SSDI lawyer shares tips on applying for Social Security disability for vision loss and the possible benefits you may receive for vision issues.
If you’re seeking low vision disability benefits or SSDI for any type of vision loss, the caring team at Phillip M. Hendry Law can help. Work with our qualified Social Security disability lawyer to understand your eligibility and the SSDI application process.
Vision Loss Vs. Low Vision
Vision loss can refer to partial or complete loss of a person’s ability to see. Vision impairments can have multiple causes, including accidents, injuries, disease, age, or certain eye conditions. Vision loss can happen suddenly or over time. Loss of vision is a broad term that can refer to various vision impairments, including total blindness. Low vision means a person has partial vision, but their ability to function in daily activities is impacted by the vision loss they have experienced.
SSA Criteria for Vision Loss and Low Vision Disorders
The SSA Blue Book covers Vision disorders under section 2.00, Special Senses and Speech. The requirements to qualify vary depending on the type and severity of your vision disorder. The SSA recognizes vision disorders as “abnormalities of the eye, the optic nerve, the optic tracts, or the brain that may cause a loss of visual acuity or visual fields.”
Specific Criteria
To meet the criteria for SSDI vision loss or low vision disability benefits, people generally must:
- Have statutory blindness or be legally blind
- Have central visual acuity of 20/200 or lower in your better with the use of a corrective lens, or a significantly impacted field of vision
Testing
To meet the SSA Blue Book criteria, you must provide evidence of eye exams proving your best-corrected central visual acuity or the extent of your visual fields. In cases where abnormalities don’t appear on a standard eye exam, the SSDI application process may require additional evidence.
You May Be Eligible for Other Benefits If You Don’t Qualify for SSDI
You can still apply and potentially qualify for low vision disability benefits even if you do not meet the Social Security Administration's definition of blindness. If your vision problems, either alone or combined with other conditions, prevent you from working, you may still be eligible under SSDI or SSI (Supplemental Social Security Income).
How to Apply for Social Security Disability for Vision Loss
Understanding the SSA eligibility criteria can be confusing, but Philip M. Hendry Law has ample experience walking clients through SSDI applications. Here are a few things you should know.
Basic Eligibility
To reach basic eligibility requirements, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have appropriate work credits (though there are some exceptions)
- You must have a severe vision impairment that meets or equals the SSA Blue Book listing
- The vision loss must be expected to last 12 months or longer
- The vision disorder must prevent you from returning to your previous work or doing other types of work
- You must earn less than $2,590 per month
What You Can Do
On an applicant’s part, the process works as follows:
- Complete your regular vision exams and treatments as prescribed
- Gather evidence of your vision impairment, including tests and diagnosis
- Request detailed doctor’s notes from medical professionals on your disorder and how it impacts your ability to function and work
- Work with a qualified attorney to complete the SSDI application
Working through the application with an experienced SSDI attorney can increase your chances of approval. Phillip M. Hendry Law can guide you through each aspect to ensure there are no application mistakes and that all necessary information is provided. If your application is initially denied, don’t stress. This is very common, and we can also help you file an appeal.
Vision Impairments and Special SSA Rules
While many of the rules are standard when it comes to SSDI eligibility, there are some special guidelines for vision loss. These include the ability to file for a “disability freeze” in certain situations, the ability to earn more than other disorders while still qualifying for benefits, and the ability to access special services such as braille or large-print notices.
Phillip M. Hendry Law Can Help You Fight for Vision Loss Benefits
Social Security for vision loss can be critical in helping you gain the resources you need for care, treatment, and daily life with your condition. Although there are some special rules designed for those with vision loss or legal blindness, the Social Security eligibility criteria and Blue Book listing for vision loss can still be quite complicated. When you work with Phillip M. Hendry Law on your SSDI application for vision loss, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing that a team with over 30 years of experience is behind you every step of the way. Get a solid chance at getting the vision loss or low vision disability benefits you deserve by working with Phillip M. Hendry Law.