ICD-10 Code H54.8 – Legal blindness, as defined in USA (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H54.8 – Legal blindness, as defined in USA
What it is
H54.8 identifies legal blindness as defined by U.S. standards. Use it when documentation states the patient meets the legal definition of blindness, even if some usable vision remains.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Records may note severe visual impairment, very limited visual fields, or visual acuity consistent with legal blindness.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider explicitly documents legal blindness in the United States. It may also fit when the chart clearly supports that legal blindness standard and no more specific eye diagnosis is being coded.
Code the underlying ocular condition separately when documented and appropriate. If the record only says “poor vision” or “low vision,” check documentation before assigning H54.8.
Do not use for
Do not use it for general visual loss, temporary blurred vision, or unspecified low vision without legal blindness documentation. Avoid it when a more specific visual impairment code applies.
Coding tip
Assign H54.8 only when the record supports the U.S. legal blindness definition; otherwise, query or check documentation.