Category: Blindness or Low Vision

Welcome to our blindness or low vision category, where everything is created from a blindness perspective. Penny Forward is a nonprofit organization founded and led by blind people, driven by the belief that financial independence is truly for everyone. Here, you’ll find articles, podcast episodes, and workshop recordings—all designed to help both the blind and sighted communities achieve their financial goals. Explore this section to gain insights and practical advice on building financial , regardless of your level of vision.

Options for free filing and tax help

Taxpayers looking for help with their taxes have several options for free filing and return preparation.

04/11/2025
Understanding the Earnings Cliff: What Employers and Employees Need to Know

Earlier this week, Penny Forward Benefits Counselor Jenny Holcomb and I talked to members of VisionServe Alliance about Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and ways to keep benefits while working. It was a great discussion, and I want to share some key points with you because I believe we all have…

04/07/2025
Disability Advocates Sue Social Security Administration and DOGE to Stop Unlawful Cuts to Social Security Services

The lawsuit alleges that recent mass staffing reductions, policies requiring individuals to seek services in person at field offices, and the elimination of critical offices within the SSA unlawfully harm Americans with disabilities and older adults who rely on Social Security services.

04/04/2025
Social Security Changes in 2025Jenny Holcomb

We’ve been hearing a lot about changes to Social Security. This article will address the most relevant recent changes.

04/01/2025
How to file when taxpayers have incorrect or missing documents

Taxpayers should make sure they have all their documents before filing a federal tax return. Those who haven’t received a W-2 or Form 1099 should contact the employer, payer or issuing agency and request the missing or corrected documents.

03/26/2025
IRS: Direct File provides free federal return filing for eligible taxpayers in 25 states

Taxpayers can file their taxes quickly, easily and for free directly with the IRS using IRS Direct File. The web-based service, available in English and Spanish, offers guided help for preparing and filing a federal tax return from a smartphone, tablet or computer in 25 states. Direct File is easy to use and helps eligible…

02/11/2025
My First NFB Washington Seminar: Advocacy, Frustration, and Hope

Last week, I participated in my first National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Washington Seminar, and let me tell you, it was an experience I won’t soon forget. The energy, the passion, and the sense of purpose were palpable. Hundreds of blind people from all over the country came together with one goal: to advocate…

02/10/2025
Why I’m in Washington, D.C. This Week—And Why You Should Take Action Too

Blind Americans deserve equal access, financial independence, and fair employment. This week, I’m in Washington, D.C., advocating for critical legislative changes—but you don’t have to be here to make a difference. Learn how you can take action from home and support the National Federation of the Blind and the American Council of the Blind in…

02/03/2025
Why the Latest Executive Orders Threaten Blind Americans—And How We Can Fight Back

Recent executive orders are putting accessibility programs and workplace protections for blind and disabled Americans at risk. Learn why this matters, what’s at stake, and how you can take action to protect our rights and financial independence.

01/29/2025
National Federation of the Blind: Time-Sensitive Legislative Alert Regarding Subminimum Wages for People with Disabilities

The following email was sent to us by Justin T. Young at the National Federation of the Blind. On December 4, 2024, the US Department of Labor released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) regarding the phaseout of Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The National Federation of the Blind fully supports this…

01/16/2025