Low Vision

Most individuals with low vision deal with a lot of frustration.  Starting with not being able to drive or get around as they use to.  Finding work is one of the hardest obstructions.  This may lead to the question – where can one get financial help? 

If you’re a Veteran, Veterans Administration Disability can give assistance to the tune of about $984.00 or more depending on your service connection.  But most of us have Social Security Disability that we look at first.  We paid into it all our working lives, right?  Well, it’s not good news there.  The Social Security Administration turns down about 95% of all applications.  You have to be iron-clad blind, bumping into walls, before they will accept you for benefits.  The other thing you should know is it takes 5 to 6 months for them to process your application.  So don’t spend your savings.  There are attorneys who will appeal your case for about 25% of any back benefits you may get – and none if you don’t receive any.  That is a good thing, believe me, as our system right now is screwed up!  Your other alternative is the State Department of Health and Social Services.  They have a disability program that will get you a little assistance like food stamps, medical card, and financial assistance depending on your disability status.  Check with your Phone company and Utilities companies as they sometimes have programs for the disabled to lessen your bills.

Now here’s what I want to caution you on, because it will mean how much of a fight you may have obtaining help from financial assistance programs.  “CHECK YOUR MEDICAL RECORDS”.  I can not emphasize this more.  Every agency out there will obtain your medical records to make their decision.  If there is one word that can be used to disqualify you, even an obvious error, they will use it to turn you down.  So go to your doctor, look or get copies of your medical records and make sure all the “i”s are dotted and the “t”s crossed.  Do this before you file for assistance.  It will save a lot of agonizing time and frustration. I know, this is what I am going through.  And they will literally go back years to find that one word or type-o to make an argument against your eligibliity

If you are able to use a computer, or have someone do it for you,  look up Social Security or Vetrans and Department of Health and Social Services.  Search for their definitions of blindness or any other disability you may apply for.  It’s all there, and make yourself aware of what the law is.  The all have web pages and are available to the public.