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Social benefits

Apply for assistance for the blind

Monthly assistance for the blind under Section 72 of SGB XII, provided by the Social Welfare Office as means-tested assistance for blind people (in addition to the blind person's allowance).

Processing: approx. 3 weeks
Success rate: 65.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Submit an application to the Social Services Office

    With proof of blindness (notification of determination from the Social Security Office).

  2. 2

    Income and Asset Test

    The Social Services Office is determining whether the individual is eligible for blindness assistance in addition to the blindness allowance.

  3. 3

    Notice of Approval and Monthly Payment

    Deduction from the blind person's allowance or supplement, depending on state law.

Required documents

  • Decision on Blindness Benefits / 100% Disability RatingMandatory

    Proof of recognized blindness.

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 3 weeks

Official: max. approx. 1 months

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • Assistance for the Blind Confused with Blindness Benefits (Different Legal Bases and Government Agencies)
  • • Asset exemptions not taken into account

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Income exceeds the threshold
  • • The disability allowance fully covers their needs

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Blind individuals who receive a blindness allowance and require additional assistance to cover extra expenses related to their blindness.

Income limit

Income- and asset-based in accordance with SGB XII.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 weeks

Success rate

approx. 65.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Assistance for the Blind Confused with Blindness Benefits (Different Legal Bases and Government Agencies)
  • •Asset exemptions not taken into account

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Income exceeds the threshold
  • •The disability allowance fully covers their needs

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Read more