Benefits · Income Support
How to apply for New York State Blind Annuity (Cash Payment for Blind Wartime Veterans)
New York State Department of Veterans' Services (DVS)
Who it's for
New York pays a monthly annuity to legally blind wartime veterans — and to their unremarried surviving spouses — who live in New York State. The 2025 rate is $141.33 per month, about $1,696 per year. The blindness does not need to be connected to military service: legal blindness means 20/200 vision in the better eye with best correction, or a field of vision limited to 20 degrees. The veteran needs wartime service of at least 90 days on active duty (less if discharged early for a service-connected disability). Apply by mailing the Blind Annuity application and a Report of Legal Blindness form, with the discharge paperwork, to DVS — or call 1-888-838-7697 for help.
The veteran's service must have been during a recognized wartime period — generally at least 90 days on active duty, or less if discharged early for a service-connected disability — and the applicant must live in and be domiciled in New York State. Legal blindness is certified on a DVS form by an eye-care provider; it does not need to be service-connected. A surviving spouse qualifies only while unremarried.
What you'll need
- Completed Blind Annuity Application from DVS
- Report of Legal Blindness form completed by an eye-care provider
- DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork showing wartime service
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-888-838-7697
What to say when you call
“Hello, I'm calling to ask about New York State Blind Annuity (Cash Payment for Blind Wartime Veterans). 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 completed blind annuity application from dvs, report of legal blindness form completed by an eye-care provider, dd-214 or other military discharge paperwork showing wartime service — 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.
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.