Benefits for the Severely Sight Impaired (Blind): 2026 Guide
1. The CVI (Certificate of Vision Impairment)
The gateway to most specific benefits for the blind is the
Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI).
- This is issued by a Consultant Ophthalmologist.
- It registers you as either "Severely Sight Impaired" (SSI - formerly 'blind') or "Sight Impaired" (SI - formerly 'partially sighted').
- If you are registered as SSI, several benefits are automatically fast-tracked or enhanced.
2. Universal Credit: The Disabled Child Element
If you have a child who is registered as Severely Sight Impaired, they are automatically entitled to the
Higher Rate Disabled Child Element (£487.58/month) in your Universal Credit award.
- You do NOT need to wait for a DLA or PIP award to get this extra money. The CVI is sufficient evidence.
3. Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
While PIP is based on functional impact, being registered as SSI is strong evidence.
- Activity 11 (Planning Journeys): Most people registered as SSI should easily meet the criteria for Descriptor E (12 points): "Cannot follow the route of a familiar journey without another person, an assistance dog, or an orientation aid." This guarantees the Enhanced Rate of Mobility.
- Activity 8 (Reading): You should score at least 8 points if you cannot read standard or large print without a specialist device (like a magnifier or screen reader).
4. The Blind Person’s Allowance (Tax)
If you are registered as SSI and you work or have a pension, you can claim the
Blind Person’s Allowance.
- This is added to your tax-free Personal Allowance.
- In 2026/2027, the allowance is £3,070. This means you can earn an extra £3,070 before paying any income tax.
- If you are married or in a civil partnership and do not use all of the allowance, you can transfer the remainder to your partner.
5. TV Licence Concession
If you (or someone you live with) is registered as SSI, you can get a
50% discount on your TV licence.
- You must provide a copy of your CVI or a letter from your local authority confirming your registration.
6. Travel Concessions
- Disabled Person’s Bus Pass: Free off-peak travel on local buses across England (different rules apply in Scotland/Wales).
- Disabled Persons Railcard: Gives you and a companion 1/3 off rail fares across the UK.
- Blue Badge: If you are registered as SSI, you are automatically eligible for a Blue Badge. You do not need to undergo a mobility assessment.
7. Access to Work
If you are working or about to start a new job, the government's
Access to Work scheme will pay for:
- Screen reading software (JAWS, NVDA).
- Braille displays.
- Support workers (e.g., someone to help you navigate a large office or assist with reading printed documents).
- Taxis to work if public transport is inaccessible to you.
8. Checklist for the Severely Sight Impaired
1.
Ensure you have a CVI: If you don't, ask your GP for a referral to the Eye Clinic.
2.
Register with the Council: Take your CVI to your local council to get your Blue Badge and Bus Pass.
3.
Claim the Tax Allowance: Call HMRC to have the Blind Person's Allowance added to your tax code.
4.
Check UC: If it's your child, ensure the UC journal is updated immediately to trigger the higher rate element.