Blind Americans Return to Work Act of 2025

This bill tests a new way for blind people on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to work without losing all their benefits at once. Instead of cutting off benefits when earnings pass a limit, monthly SSDI would slowly go down: for every $2 earned above the monthly limit plus work expenses, the benefit drops by $1. In 2025, the monthly limit for blind workers is $2,700, and reasonable work costs also count before the reduction starts . During the test, benefits won’t end just because someone works, and the usual “trial work period” rules won’t apply.

The test would run for 20 years and begin within 180 days of becoming law. People who qualify during the first 10 years can choose to opt out later. The Social Security Administration can adjust certain rules to make the test work.

• Who is affected: Blind SSDI beneficiaries who qualify during the first 10 years of the project.
• What changes: Benefits are reduced $1 for every $2 earned above the monthly limit plus work expenses; no loss of benefits just for working; no trial work period rules during the test.
• When: Starts within 180 days of enactment; runs 20 years; opt-out available after 10 years .