Blind Americans Return to Work Act of 2026

The "Blind Americans Return to Work Act of 2026" mandates a 20-year demonstration project under Title II of the Social Security Act, specifically for blind individuals receiving disability benefits. This project aims to encourage employment by altering how their benefits are affected by earned income. For eligible blind individuals, the project makes several key modifications. First, eligibility for disability benefits will no longer consider substantial gainful activity , meaning individuals can earn more without losing their disabled status. Second, benefits will not terminate due to earnings from services, and the traditional trial work period will not apply. Instead, benefits will be reduced by $1 for every $2 earned above a specified exempt amount and work-related expenses, ensuring benefits are not reduced below zero. This benefit offset mechanism is designed to allow blind individuals to return to work and increase their income while still receiving some level of support. Participants in the project also have the option to opt out after the initial 120-month period.