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Registering with NCBI

If you are registered (i.e. 'registered as blind') with NCBI you may be entitled to claim certain benefits and allowances from the Department of Social Protection and the Health Service Executive.

What is registration?

NCBI holds statistics of those using our services and of those who fulfil the criteria for being 'registered as blind’ in Ireland.

Why should I register?

You need to fulfil registration criteria (i.e. to have sight loss to such an extent that you can be 'registered as blind') to claim benefits and allowances. Your registration form needs to be submitted with your application for a payment from the Department of Social Protection and the Health Service Executive. Registration also helps to keep a record of the number of people with sight loss in Ireland so that we can plan and provide the best service for you.

How do I register?

A consultant eye specialist (ophthalmologist) or an optometrist must complete a registration form. NCBI can post you a registration form to bring with you to your next appointment with your eye specialist/optometrist or we can post a form directly to them. If you are not already seeing an eye specialist ask your doctor to refer you. The registration form requests your contact details, your level of vision and your diagnosis. Your eye specialist/optometrist will complete this form and forward it to your local NCBI community resource worker. The level of vision as specified by the eye specialist/optometrist on the registration form will determine whether you will be 'registered as blind' and therefore entitled to claim benefits and allowances.