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Washington • Mental Health
If you live in Washington and Anxiety Disorders make it hard to work, you may qualify for federal disability (SSI, SSDI) and state programs like ABD (Aged, Blind, or Disabled) and HEN (Housing and Essential Needs). This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, income and banking rules, plus where to get help managing your claims.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with Anxiety Disorders, you must have a medical condition so severe it prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death[3][8]. For SSI, income and assets must be very low, and you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) strict medical and functional criteria—Anxiety Disorders must cause “marked” limitations in daily activities, social functioning, or concentration[3]. SSDI requires enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes, usually 40 credits total with 20 earned in the last 10 years, but this depends on your age when you became disabled[1][3]. The SSA will not count unsuccessful work attempts due to your condition, but currently working above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level—$1,550 a month in 2025—will disqualify you, regardless of your diagnosis[1].
Washington’s ABD (Aged, Blind, or Disabled) program helps low-income adults with severe disabilities—including Anxiety Disorders—while they apply for SSI, which can take several months. ABD eligibility requires you to be at least 18, have a disabling condition that prevents work for at least 12 months (medical proof needed), meet strict income and resource limits, and pursue federal benefits[4][6]. You cannot get ABD if you already receive SSI or are eligible for higher-benefit programs like TANF[6]. The state counts Anxiety Disorders as a qualifying mental health condition if they severely limit your daily functioning. ABD provides up to $450/month for individuals ($570 for couples) and referrals to Housing and Essential Needs (HEN)[4][6]. Note: If you later get SSI, you may have to repay ABD through October 2025, with limited exceptions[2]. Washington also offers a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to SSI recipients, adding a small amount to the federal benefit to help with high living costs[5].
If Anxiety Disorders prevent you from working, start by reviewing eligibility for SSI/SSDI online[3][8]. Gather medical records and work history. If you need immediate help, apply for Washington’s ABD program online, over the phone, or in person, but be ready to also apply for SSI[4][6]. Use Washington Connection to screen for benefits[10].
1. Gather Documents Collect medical records, therapy notes, work history, income statements, and ID. Strong evidence that Anxiety Disorders limit your ability to work is crucial.
2. Start Federal Application Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone (1-800-772-1213), or at a local SSA office. Describe how Anxiety Disorders affect your daily life and work[3][8].
3. Apply for State Benefits If you have low income and no SSI yet, apply for ABD through Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). You must also apply for SSI as part of the process[4][6]. ABD offers up to $450/month and HEN referrals while you wait for federal benefits.
4. Check Other Benefits Use Washington Connection to see if you qualify for Medicaid, food, or housing help[10].
5. Follow Up Respond quickly to any requests from SSA or DSHS. Keep copies of all paperwork and track your application status.
6. Appeal if Denied If denied, request a reconsideration and consider contacting a disability attorney or advocate.
The main federal programs for Anxiety Disorders are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI is for people with very low income and assets, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those who have paid enough Social Security taxes through work. Both require proof that Anxiety Disorders are severe, chronic, and disabling[1][3][8]. The 2025 federal SSI payment is $967/month for individuals, $1,450 for couples[5].
Washington has several programs for people with Anxiety Disorders and other disabilities:
You cannot get ABD if you already have SSI or are eligible for higher-benefit programs like TANF. Use Washington Connection to check all possible benefits[10].
Washingtonians with disabilities—including Anxiety Disorders—can open an ABLE account to save money without losing SSI or Medicaid eligibility. These accounts let you save up to $100,000 and still qualify for means-tested benefits. Learn more in our ABLE Accounts guide.
For SSI in 2025, countable income must be very low ($967/month for individuals, $1,450 for couples), and you must have less than $2,000 in assets ($3,000 for couples)[5]. ABD has even stricter income and resource limits—check DSHS rules for details[4][6]. Most income from work or benefits counts, but some types (like SNAP) may not.
If you get overpaid by SSI, SSDI, or ABD, you’ll have to repay the extra. Always report changes in income, living situation, or health right away to avoid overpayments. See our guide on Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes for more.
Mental health is health. Anxiety Disorders can be disabling if they severely limit your daily life and ability to work. Washington’s programs recognize this, but you must provide strong medical proof. If you’re homeless or in crisis, ABD and HEN can help with immediate needs while your SSI claim is pending[2][4][6]. If denied, appeal—many people win benefits on appeal.
If you get SSI after receiving ABD in Washington, you may have to repay the state for ABD benefits you received. This repayment rule is in effect through October 2025, unless the law changes[2]. Always ask about repayment options or hardship waivers if this affects you.
You need detailed medical records, treatment history, and statements from doctors or therapists explaining how your anxiety severely limits your daily activities or ability to work. The SSA and DSHS look for evidence that your condition is chronic and disabling, not just occasional stress[3][8].
For SSI/SSDI, you generally cannot earn more than $1,550/month (2025) and still qualify, but unsuccessful work attempts due to your disability may not count against you[1]. ABD also has strict income limits—check with DSHS for details[4][6].
Yes, you may qualify for ABD and HEN while you appeal. ABD is designed as a bridge for people waiting for SSI approval, but you must keep applying for federal benefits[4][6].
Yes, Washington offers a small State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to some SSI recipients, which is added to your federal benefit to help with higher living costs[5].
Until October 2025, you may have to repay ABD assistance you received while waiting for SSI. This law may change in the future, so check for updates[2].
Yes, your treating providers’ records are key evidence. Make sure they document how Anxiety Disorders impact your ability to work and function. The SSA or DSHS may also require exams by their doctors[3][8].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or benefits advice. Program rules and amounts may change. Always verify eligibility and application details with the relevant agency.
SSI/SSDI decisions typically take 3–6 months, but can be longer if you need to appeal. ABD can provide temporary help during this wait[2][4].
Yes, ABD and HEN serve many people experiencing homelessness. Nearly 30% of ABD recipients are homeless[2]. These programs can help with immediate housing and essential needs.
Yes, SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in Washington. ABD recipients get a referral to apply for Apple Health (Medicaid). Check Washington Connection for details[10].
Use Washington Connection, the state’s online screening tool, to see which programs you may be eligible for based on your income, health, and living situation[10].
