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Washington • Speech/Language
People with aphasia in Washington can qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These programs help with income, health care, and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what to expect.
Washington offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities. These accounts let you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the money for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation. Learn more about Washington ABLE accounts and how to open one.
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples. Washington’s SSP may add more to this amount. For Medicaid, income limits depend on your situation and the program you apply for. Check with DSHS for current limits.
You must report changes in your income, living situation, or health to Social Security and DSHS. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Reporting changes helps you avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office for help with your application. You can also get free help from Washington’s DSHS.
Yes, if your aphasia is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. The Social Security Administration reviews your medical records to decide.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs use the same medical definition of disability.
The federal SSI payment is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples in 2025. Washington adds a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to help with the cost of living.
Yes, you must report changes in your income, living situation, or health to Social Security and DSHS. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate.
Yes, Social Security has work incentives that let you try returning to work for at least 9 months without losing your full disability payment. This is called a trial work period.
The SSP is extra money each month for SSI recipients in Washington. It helps make up for the high cost of living and is added to your federal SSI check.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
You can apply for Medicaid through Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) online at www.dshs.wa.gov or by phone. You will need to provide proof of income and disability.
ABD is short-term cash help for people with very low income who are waiting for federal disability approval or are temporarily disabled. If you get ABD and later qualify for SSI, you may have to pay back some benefits until October 2025.
Yes, Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program can provide short-term wage replacement if you need time off work due to aphasia or to care for a family member with aphasia.
Medicaid waivers let people with disabilities get home and community-based services instead of living in an institution. These services can include personal care, therapy, and support to live independently.
