My vision is impaired but I'm not totally blind. Can I still qualify for disability checks?

The social security administration's disability benefits program is available for those who are unable to work due to a permanent or long term disability. It is possible to get eye disorder disability benefits provided you meet the relevant criteria for SSDI benefits. 

The criteria for SSDI benefits based on vision loss states that you are eligible for benefits:

• If you meet the minimum work history requirements. Exactly how long you must have worked in a job covered by social security depends on how old you are when you apply for the benefits. 
• If your vision is significantly impaired. Under the SSA definition, this means that your corrected vision in your best eye must be worse than 20/200. This means if your vision is better than 20/200 with contacts or glasses, even in one eye, then you can't qualify based on the vision impairment alone. 
• That your vision loss is expected to continue or last on a long term basis (usually, for 12 or more months minimum)

If you are unable to qualify because your vision is better than 20/200 when corrected in at least one eye, this doesn't necessarily mean you can't qualify. You may be able to if you can prove that whatever is wrong with you is medically equivalent to a disorder listed in the blue book. In other words, if you are as impaired by your problem as you would be if you had a listed disability or problem, and medical evidence supports this, you may still be able to get benefits. 

For help understanding whether you can qualify for SSDI benefits, or for assistance in applying for such benefits, it is a good idea to consult with an experienced disability rights attorney.