Children · United States
US benefits for visually impaired children.
Parents of children with low vision or blindness in the United States have access to SSI, IDEA-funded school accommodations, 504 plans, state Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) programs, and IRS deductions. Here's the full map.
SSI for children
Children under 18 with low income parents and legal blindness or severe disability qualify for SSI ($943/month in 2026). Apply at the local Social Security office; medical documentation from an ophthalmologist required.
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
Public schools must provide free assistive technology and a Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) under an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Lumyeye on a school iPad or iPhone qualifies as AT to support reading and orientation.
Section 504 plans
For students who do not qualify for an IEP but still need accommodations (extra time, screen reader, voice apps), a 504 plan covers them. Submit a written request to the school principal.
State CSHCN programs
Each state has a Children with Special Health Care Needs program that helps with adaptive equipment and AT. Income-based, with case management.
IRS dependent medical deduction
Parents can deduct medical expenses paid for a visually impaired dependent child if they exceed 7.5% of AGI (Schedule A, itemized).
Nonprofits to know
- American Printing House for the Blind (APH) – federal funding for AT in K-12.
- National Federation of the Blind (NFB) – BELL Academy, scholarships, parents network.
- Perkins School for the Blind – specialized education and parental resources.
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