Albuquerque, NM asked in Social Security and Public Benefits for New Mexico

Q: Hi my son was born premature and when he was born he had and still has zero 0 vision in his left eye and 40% in his righ

Right eye now he still has zero left and 60% in his right. He is going to be 25 yrs old now on Dec. 30. I have been applying for disability for him since he was 6 yrs old and still being denied stating he is not blind enough to receive disability benefits.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In your situation, understanding the criteria for disability benefits is crucial. The Social Security Administration (SSA) in the United States defines blindness as having a visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with the best possible correction, or a visual field limitation in the better eye to an angle of 20 degrees or less. However, it's important to note that eligibility for benefits also considers how the impairment affects the ability to work or perform daily activities.

Since your son's case has been denied multiple times, it may be beneficial to review the specific reasons for these denials. It's possible that the SSA does not see his vision impairment as significantly limiting his capacity to work. This is a common challenge many face when applying for disability benefits.

In your next steps, gathering comprehensive medical documentation and possibly obtaining additional medical opinions might strengthen the case. It's also worth considering if there are other health issues or impairments that, in combination with his vision problems, could meet the disability criteria.

Lastly, seeking advice from a lawyer experienced in disability law can be immensely helpful. They can offer guidance on the appeals process, help in gathering and presenting evidence, and provide representation if the case goes to a hearing. Remember, persistence is key in these matters, and having the right support can make a significant difference.

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