Keeping current on finances and technology is a 21^st-century challenge we all face with varying degrees of success. For adults living with blindness or low vision, the challenge can be even greater. The good news is that today, there is more support than ever before to help people living with vision loss manage their finances safely and independently. Options include talking calculators, audible tools, and tactile strategies for handling cash, accessible banking apps, and assistive technology to access financial information and platforms. Signature guides and check guides can take the guesswork out of signing documents and writing checks for people with vision loss.

Vision Loss and Financial Security

The Big Data Project National Report confirms that in the US, working-age adults (aged 18-64) living with blindness and low vision are significantly more likely to experience low income and poverty than their sighted peers. Approximately 42% of these working-age adults report an annual income of less than $20,000, compared with 11% of their sighted peers. It is essential that all adults continue to build their financial literacy to live as independently as possible.

Handling Money: From Tactile to Tech

Did you know that the US is the only country in the world with a currency where every denomination is the same size? So, unlike in other countries where bill size currently differentiates denominations and values, people with vision loss in the US must develop tactile systems to keep track of cash. Systems include folding bills by denomination or segregating them in pockets, wallet compartments, or handbag areas. There is also an increasing selection of tech and AI solutions that takes the guesswork out of currency. For example, the iBill Reader is a pocket-sized device that speaks, vibrates, or beeps to indicate the denomination of the currency it is fed. The iBill is available free of charge from the Treasury Department for any US citizen who is blind or visually impaired. Mobile apps and the latest AI tools can also help discreetly and accurately manage cash in hand.

Paying Without Cash

The scope of digital payment systems continues to grow with Google Wallet, Cash App, Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and others that make digital transactions simple and secure. Most digital payment apps are accessible with screen readers and provide audible confirmation for transactions. An increasing number of retailers of all types and sizes, including Amazon and Instacart, are accessible, secure, and make it easy to shop and pay without traditional currency.

Financial Tracking Tools

QuickBooks users who are visually impaired can use the Aira app for at-home or on-the-job accounting. Traditional software such as Excel and Google Sheets can also be used with screen readers to manage finances, develop budgets, and track spending. A growing number of budgeting and expense-tracking software and apps are available, including apps offered by banks and other financial institutions. Voice apps and braille can be used to update expenses and code receipts. Money Talks for Windows is accessible self-voicing bank account management software that lets people with blindness or low vision balance and budget their accounts.

Financial Information Made Accessible

Assistive devices such as screen readers can make it easier for people with vision loss to pay bills, track expenses, and check their latest transactions. Banks, credit unions, and other financial services institutions are committed to improving accessibility for their blind or low vision clients. Most allow bill payment online or through a mobile app. Check to see how many of these helpful features your bank, credit union, or mortgage company offers:

• Screen reader-formatted documents
• User-customizable digital interface
• Text-to-speech options for spoken transactions and account information
• Braille and/or large print statements and communication
• Refreshable braille display and special apps that convert screen text to braille

Most ATMs are also accessible, providing tactile keypads, braille buttons, and voice guidance for those living with blindness or low vision, including jacks for personal earphones. In addition to ATM access, a broad range of financial literacy resources and apps also provide support. For instance, Penny Forward offers self-paced online financial education courses and other services designed especially for those with vision loss. Furthermore, apps and AI tools developed by tech companies such as Envision convert scanned documents, statements, and contracts into audio.

Maintaining Security

Keeping an eye on important documents and accounts has never been more crucial. Ask your bank if they offer accessible two-factor authentication that can be used with voice commands or accessed with screen readers. Some financial institutions offer the option of having important documents read to clients over the phone through telephone banking.

Watch out for financial scams! Scammers prey on people who may be vulnerable or isolated. Never share your PINs or other private banking information over the phone or in response to a text or email that may appear to be from a trusted source. Use fraud alerts and secure passwords and remember to change them frequently.

Cultivate Good Money Habits

Vision rehabilitation agencies offer training and support for all aspects of daily life, including money matters. Financial literacy counseling, courses, and workshops—many free of charge—can help adults living with blindness and low vision discover the best tools to manage their finances. Several national organizations also offer workshops, webinars, and other helpful information for people living with blindness and low vision.

Are you Eligible?

Some federal and state programs, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), help adults living with vision loss manage their finances and provide direct financial support. Depending on income, you may also qualify for various supportive programs, such as those providing property tax relief, housing and utility assistance, and more.

Maintaining financial health is essential for everyone. The increasingly digital nature of our times and the technology that supports it offer greater convenience, security, and access for all, with specialized tools that can benefit everyone living with blindness or low vision.