Noteboom The Law Firm

SSA Assistance for the Blind

Whether you are legally blind or have low vision, you might have trouble finding or keeping a job. In this economy, it is often difficult for people with perfect vision to get a job, so it is understandable if you cannot find one. For this reason, you may be eligible for either Supplemental Security Income or Social Security disability payments.

If you are in fact legally blind, meaning that your vision is 20/200 or less, you are eligible for benefits since many jobs would be nearly impossible for you to do. If your vision is very low but you are not legally blind, you can still likely get benefits, as long as your issue prevents you from working. If your vision problem combined with some other disability makes it hard to find any job, you may also receive benefits.

To qualify for SSI, your income cannot exceed a certain number. The income threshold varies depending on your state, so contacting a lawyer to find out what your limit is can be helpful. If you have never worked before, you can still get SSI.

On the other hand, to qualify for Social Security disability (SSDI) payments, you need to have worked for enough years. The number of years worked will be converted to work credits, because you need to have paid into Social Security at your job to reap the benefits. The number of work credits needed takes age into consideration, as well.

Additionally, the Social Security Administration provides a few special services just for blind or visually impaired people. For example, most of the information on the SSA website is available in Braille or audio tape format. A new rule will also require the organization to offer notifications to blind people through Braille or audio disc, in addition to the typical mail or phone call options.

If you, or your loved one, are suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The disability lawyers at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.