Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a serious form of AMD that significantly affects vision, which may make it hard to work full time. If you can’t work because of wet AMD, Social Security disability benefits may help replace lost income. “I’m living on Social Security with a very small retirement since I was unable to work for the last 10 years,” a myAMDteam member shared.

This article explores five key facts about getting Social Security benefits with wet AMD.

1. There Are Different Types of Social Security Benefits

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers different benefit programs that may help people with wet AMD.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly payments to people who can’t work due to a disability, including blindness. To qualify, you must have worked for a certain number of years. If approved, you’ll get a monthly payment to help cover daily expenses, plus Medicare to help with medical expenses. The payment amount is based on your work history. If you want to try working again, you may still qualify for benefits, but you’ll need to report any changes in your situation.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a separate program for people who have little income and resources. You don’t need a work history to qualify, but you must be over age 65 or have a disability. Like SSDI, SSI provides a monthly payment, but the amount depends on factors such as your living situation, your income, and any assets you own.

2. You Might Qualify for Both Benefits

Some people qualify for both SSDI and SSI at the same time. This is called concurrent benefits. You can apply for multiple assistance programs at once, and the SSA will tell you which ones you qualify for.

Other programs can also help with daily costs like groceries and medical expenses. For example, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may be paired with SSI to help pay for food, and Medicaid or Medicare can provide health insurance for people who have disabilities or are retired. Learning about your options can help ease financial stress if working is no longer possible.

Even if you don’t qualify for Social Security disability benefits, other resources may be available. Ask your healthcare provider to connect you with a social worker who’s familiar with different resources in your local area. Many faith communities, nonprofits, and other organizations offer services like free transportation, food, or other support. If you’re part of a support group for people with wet AMD or vision loss, ask your group facilitator about resources. Don’t be afraid to reach out when you need extra help.

If you don’t qualify for disability benefits, other community programs may be available. Ask your healthcare provider to connect you with a social worker who’s familiar with resources in your area.

3. Significant Vision Loss May Qualify You for Benefits

A wet AMD diagnosis doesn’t automatically mean you’re eligible for Social Security disability benefits. However, if your vision loss is so severe that you can’t work, you may be eligible.

The SSA uses a medical guide called the Blue Book to decide who qualifies. For vision loss, the criteria include:

• 20/200 vision or worse in your better eye, even with glasses or contacts
• 20 percent or lower visual efficiency (how well your eyes work together)
• 1.0 or greater visual impairment value (a number based on multiple vision tests)

An optometrist or ophthalmologist can measure your vision to determine if you might qualify for benefits.

A wet AMD diagnosis doesn’t mean you’re automatically eligible for Social Security disability benefits, but you may qualify if your vision loss is so severe that you can't work.

4. Vision Requirements Depend on Job Type

The Blue Book guidelines are a good starting point, but you may qualify for benefits even if you don’t meet those exact numbers. Certain jobs require sharp vision, so the rules might be more flexible depending on your career.

For example, a pilot with wet AMD may have to stop working before their vision loss progresses to the limits listed in the Blue Book. If your current level of vision loss makes it unsafe or unrealistic to do your job, exceptions may be possible.

Some members of myAMDteam have continued working with wet AMD. “I have wet AMD in both eyes and have been getting injections for over 26 years and can still see — not great, but I can still function as a professional artist,” one member shared.

If your vision loss — or other medical conditions — keep you from earning enough to support yourself, it may be time to look into disability benefits.

5. The Application Process Takes Time

You can apply for Social Security benefits online, over the phone, or in person, but be prepared for the application and decision to take a while. You’ll need to provide documents about your medical situation, income, and work history. Even if you’re approved, you’ll have to wait five months to start receiving benefits.

Getting approved for wet AMD can be challenging, especially if your vision doesn’t exactly match the Blue Book guidelines. You can appeal the decision if you are denied.

The appeals process has four levels, beginning with asking the SSA to reconsider its decision. Next, you can ask a judge to review your case. If the judge denies your claim, you can request a higher review from the Appeals Council. Finally, you can take your case to the U.S. District Court.

Vision loss from wet AMD can progress quickly, so if your eyesight changes or you develop other complications, you may need to update your benefits application. A new evaluation could affect your eligibility.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myAMDteam, the social network for people with age-related macular degeneration and their loved ones, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand what life is like with wet or dry AMD.

Does your visual acuity affect your ability to work? Have you tried applying for Social Security disability benefits due to low vision or other symptoms of wet AMD? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.