People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in Washington can get federal and state disability benefits. ALS is considered a severe disability, so qualifying for SSDI or SSI is often faster. Washington also offers extra help with medical care and living costs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with ALS in Washington, you must have a severe medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses two main programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Both programs use the same medical definition of disability, but eligibility differs.
For SSDI, you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. In 2025, you earn one credit for each $1,810 in covered earnings, up to four credits per year. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. ALS is considered a severe disability, so qualifying for benefits is often faster and easier than for other conditions[1][3][8].
Washington offers extra help for people with ALS who get federal disability benefits. The state provides a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to SSI recipients, which increases monthly payments to help with living costs. The SSP is automatic for most SSI recipients in Washington, but you must apply separately if you only get SSDI.
Washington also has Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with long-term care needs. The Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) cash assistance program helps low-income people with disabilities, but there may be payback requirements if you later qualify for federal benefits. The state is phasing out these payback rules, but some people may still need to repay ABD benefits until October 2025[2][4][9].
Washington offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including ALS. These accounts let you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use ABLE funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, education, and housing. To open an account, visit the Washington ABLE website or call 1-855-922-5300[9].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples. Washington’s State Supplementary Payment adds extra money to these amounts. Income limits for Medicaid and Medicaid waivers vary based on your situation. Check with your local DSHS office for exact limits[4][9].
You must report any changes in your income, living situation, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible to keep your benefits and avoid problems[2][9].
ALS is considered a severe disability, so qualifying for federal disability benefits is often faster and easier than for other conditions. Make sure to mention your ALS diagnosis when you apply.
Washington offers extra help for people with ALS, including a State Supplementary Payment for SSI recipients and Medicaid waivers for long-term care.
Yes, ALS is considered a severe disability, so you can qualify for SSDI or SSI in Washington. You must have a formal diagnosis and meet income or work credit requirements. The process is often faster for ALS than for other conditions[1][3][8].
The federal SSI payment is $967 per month for individuals in 2025. Washington adds a State Supplementary Payment to this amount. SSDI payments depend on your work history and earnings. Medicaid and Medicaid waivers can help with medical and long-term care costs[4][9].
If you get SSI, you will automatically get Washington’s State Supplementary Payment. If you only get SSDI, you must apply separately for the SSP. Contact your local DSHS office for more information[4][9].
Yes, you can try to work without losing your benefits. Social Security has a trial work period and other work incentives for people with disabilities. If you earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity limit, you may lose benefits[10].
ABD is a cash assistance program for low-income people with disabilities in Washington. It helps people while they wait for federal benefits. Some people may need to pay back ABD benefits if they later qualify for federal payments[2][9].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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You can apply for Medicaid waivers through the Washington Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). These waivers help with long-term care for people with ALS who qualify. Contact your local DSHS office for more information[9].
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including ALS. You can use it for qualified disability expenses. Washington offers ABLE accounts through the state’s ABLE program[9].
Yes, you must report any changes to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits. Report changes as soon as possible to your local DSHS office or Social Security office[2][9].
Yes, Medicaid and Medicaid waivers can help with medical and long-term care costs for people with ALS in Washington. You can also get help through the Healthcare for Workers with Disabilities program[9].
SSDI is based on work history and Social Security taxes paid. SSI is based on income and resources. Both programs use the same medical definition of disability, but eligibility requirements differ[1][3][8].
