Transferring to Disability Support Pension (DSP) (Blind) 008-03010040
Expand allThis document explains how to assess a customer’s eligibility to transfer from DSP to DSP (Blind).
Transfer to DSP (Blind)
Customers not getting DSP, who want to be assessed for DSP (Blind), need to lodge a DSP claim. The usual eligibility rules apply, except customers eligible for DSP (Blind) do not need to meet continuing inability to work (CITW).
Customers getting DSP, who want DSP (Blind), can be transferred without a claim if they meet the rules for permanent blindness.
The customer must meet one of the following:
- Visual acuity on the Snellen Scale, after correction by suitable lenses must be less than 6/60 in both eyes
- Constriction to within 10 degrees of fixation in the better eye irrespective of corrected visual acuity, or
- A combination of visual defects resulting in the same degree of visual impairment as that occurring in the above points
The customer needs to provide a report from their treating ophthalmologist. The preferred form is the Request for Ophthalmologist/Optometrist Report (SA013). A report with the same information is also acceptable.
Customers with an existing Identity Confirmation Indicator (ICI) of 'Confirmed' do not need to provide identity documents. If the ICI is 'Not Confirmed', the customer may be required to confirm their identity.
Customers can choose to get their letters from Centrelink in an accessible format.
Only APS4 and above can make a determination on permanent blindness.
The Resources page has a link to the SA013 form. This page also includes letter text to use if a customer is not eligible for DSP (Blind), but is still eligible for DSP.
Related links
Claiming Disability Support Pension (DSP)
Eligibility for Disability Support Pension (DSP)
Pensions income and assets tests
Accessible letters for customers with vision loss