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What SSI Benefits Is a Blind Child Entitled To?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines that the age of a child is less than 18 years or less than 22 years if enrolled in school. The child must also be unmarried and cannot be the head of household.

  1. Blindness

    • According to the SSA, your child is considered legally blind if his vision is less than 20/200 corrected or if the better eye has a range of vision not exceeding 20°. (see Reference 1)

    When to Apply

    • You can apply for SSI benefits for a blind child at the time of his birth. There are no age limitations except as noted above.

    At Maturity

    • Once the child reaches 18 (or 22 if enrolled in school), the SSA will determine disability based on whether the adult will be able work to make a living on his own, or if the condition will continue for more than 12 months.

    Consideration of Benefits

    • If the child lives with his parents, the SSA may take into account the incomes of the parents or guardians in determining benefit amounts. If the child lives with one natural and one step-parent, both incomes will be considered. (See Reference 2 under "Deeming")

    Medicaid

    • Your child may be eligible for Medicaid as well as SSI benefits. When determining Medicaid eligibility, both parents' incomes and whether the child is institutionalized are considered.

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