If you have vision loss that is so severe that it makes it impossible for you to work you can file a claim for Social Security disability benefits. You will need to submit medical proof of your condition with your claim in order to have your claim approved. The Social Security Administration’s Blue Book can help you file a successful claim by listing the medical evidence you need in order to support your claim for Social Security benefits.
How to Blue Book Can Help You Medically Qualify with Vision Loss
In order for the Social Security Administration to approve your claim for disability benefits due to vision loss you will need to submit medical documentation that shows that you meet the requirements that the SSA has set.
The listing for vision loss in the Blue Book is very specific about what medical documents you will need to show that your vision loss meets the predetermined requirements and that your claim is valid. The Blue Book listings for vision loss states that you need to meet at least one of these criteria:
- Loss of central visual acuity– this listing covers loss in your central field of vision and requires you see no better than 20/200 in your better eye.
- Contraction of the visual field in the better eye – you can qualify under this listing if you have a shrinking field of vision. Your doctor must measure your vision with specific tests and must record what you’re able to see when you’re focusing on a fixed point. This listing requires reports of your visual field, which is the distance in all directions from the fixed point on which you’re focused. That diameter must be no greater than 20 to 30 degrees. In others words, your visual field must be very narrow.
- Loss of visual efficiency, or visual impairment– this listing covers issues that cause blurry or unfocused vision or an absence of vision (total blindness). To qualify, you must have vision in your better eye that is no greater than 20/200 when wearing corrective lenses.
You will need to have an eye exam done by an ophthalmologist as well as certain vision tests to prove that you meet those requirements.
Medical Evidence Do I Need to Win Vision Loss Condition Claim?
Your ophthalmologist should give you a copy of your exam notes and a diagnosis of vision loss. You will also need to show the results of various specific types of vision tests depending on your vision. You will need documentation showing that your eyesight is no better than 20/200 in your better eye when you are wearing corrective lenses in order to qualify for disability benefits.
Help Filing for Disability Benefits with Vision Loss
It’s easy to get the help you need to file a claim for disability benefits with vision loss. Get a Free Case Evaluation Today: A lawyer may be able to assist in helping with disability benefits. Taking the time to make sure that you have submitted proof that you meet the Blue Book documents is the best way to get your claim processed efficiently. Fill out the Free Case Evaluation on this page to get connected with a participating, independent attorney who subscribes to the website.
