How to apply for Blind Pension & Supplemental Aid to the Blind in Missouri

Who it's for

Missouri pays a monthly cash grant of $949 plus MO HealthNet coverage to residents who meet the state definition of blindness. Supplemental Aid to the Blind serves those who apply for or receive SSI (the grant is reduced by any SSI); the Blind Pension serves those not eligible for SSI, with no income test on the blind person — only a sighted spouse's income limit ($9,017 a month) and a $29,999 resource limit (the home you live in is exempt; Blind Pension recipients must surrender any driver license). Apply through the Family Support Division.

What you'll need

• MO HealthNet application + blind-assistance Application Addendum
• Vision examination establishing the state definition of blindness
• Proof of income and resources

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Blind Pension & Supplemental Aid to the Blind. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need mO HealthNet application + blind-assistance Application Addendum, vision examination establishing the state definition of blindness, proof of income and resources — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents: a completed MO HealthNet application and the blind-assistance Application Addendum, a vision examination report establishing Missouri's definition of blindness, and proof of your income and resources.
2. Note which program may apply to you. Supplemental Aid to the Blind is for people who apply for or receive SSI. The Blind Pension is for people who are not eligible for SSI — and Blind Pension applicants must surrender any driver license. The Family Support Division will determine which program fits your situation.
3. Apply online through the Missouri Family Support Division's application portal, or call 1-866-877-8155 to apply by phone or get help with your application.
4. Submit all required documents — the MO HealthNet application, the blind-assistance Application Addendum, your vision examination report, and your proof of income and resources — along with your application.
5. Respond promptly if the Family Support Division contacts you for additional information or verification during the review process.

What to expect: After submitting, the Family Support Division will review your application and documents to confirm you meet Missouri's definition of blindness and determine which program — Supplemental Aid to the Blind or the Blind Pension — applies to you. Processing times vary, so contact the Family Support Division at 1-866-877-8155 for an estimate. If approved, you may receive a monthly cash grant plus MO HealthNet coverage. Because eligibility depends on your SSI status, income, and resources, this program shows as a may-qualify result. Benefits must be renewed every year, so watch for renewal notices from the Family Support Division and respond on time to avoid any gap in coverage.

Renewals

annual