SSDI benefits are also paid to legally blind and other disabled children if at least one of their parents has worked a certain amount of time under Social Security but is now disabled, retired, or deceased. SSI is targeted for individuals who don't own much, have no income or low income according to federal criteria, and are legally blind or disabled. The Council of Citizens with Low Vision International, American Council of the Blind, National Federation of the Blind and many other organizations and agencies give scholarships to visually impaired and blind persons. Most colleges and universities have an Office for Disabled Students, which provides special services, such as reader services,.for persons with disabilities. Every state has a vocational rehabilitation agency which provides services to persons with disabilities with federal and state tax funds.
Some states have a separate rehabilitation agency for the blind and visually impaired.
Other states have a single rehabilitation agency which provides services to people with all kinds of disabilities. Some state agencies provide only services related to helping persons with disabilities become employable and find jobs. Such agencies may serve only individuals who are sixteen years of age and older and do not serve people who are beyond employment age, with some exceptions. However, some state agencies provide a wider variety of social services, independent living services, and rehabilitation services. These services are usually free of charge.