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Washington • Chronic Illness
People with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Washington can qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and cash assistance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with COPD, you must have a severe medical condition that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the same medical definition for both SSI and SSDI. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, regardless of work history. The SSA evaluates your condition based on medical evidence and how it limits your ability to work [2].
In Washington, people with COPD may qualify for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance program if they are low-income and meet disability criteria. ABD is for those who are likely to qualify for federal SSI but are waiting for approval. The program provides a monthly cash grant and helps with SSI applications. You cannot get ABD if you are already receiving SSI. Washington also offers a State Supplement to SSI, which increases monthly payments for eligible recipients. As of 2025, the federal SSI payment is $967/month for individuals, and Washington adds a state supplement [3][4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Washington residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Learn more about ABLE accounts and eligibility [internal_links.2].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Washington ABD has its own income and resource limits, which are stricter. Check the latest limits on the DSHS website [3][4].
If your income or resources change, you must report it to the SSA and DSHS. Failure to report can lead to overpayments and penalties. Learn how to avoid overpayments and report changes [internal_links.3].
Washington will stop requiring repayment of ABD benefits once recipients qualify for SSI, effective October 2025. If you are affected, check with DSHS for updates [1].
Yes, if your COPD is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months. You may qualify for federal SSI or SSDI, and Washington state programs like ABD or Medicaid if you meet income and medical criteria [2][4].
Start by gathering medical records and applying for SSI or SSDI through the SSA. If you are low-income and waiting for SSI, apply for Washington ABD. You can apply online or at a local office [4][6].
ABD is a cash assistance program for low-income people with disabilities who are likely to qualify for SSI but are waiting for approval. It provides a monthly cash grant and helps with SSI applications [4].
Currently, Washington requires ABD recipients to repay benefits if they later qualify for SSI. However, this rule is ending in October 2025. Check with DSHS for updates [1].
Washington adds extra money to federal SSI payments for eligible recipients. The amount depends on your living situation and is meant to help with the high cost of living [3].
Yes, you can try returning to work without losing benefits for at least 9 months. This is called a trial work period. After that, benefits may stop if you earn above the limit [10].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult official sources or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
You may qualify for Medicaid if you are low-income and have a disability. If you get SSDI, you can get Medicare after a 24-month waiting period [7][8].
Federal SSI pays $967/month for individuals in 2025. Washington adds a state supplement. ABD pays up to $450/month for individuals. SSDI payments vary based on your work history [3][4].
You need medical records showing your COPD diagnosis and how it limits your ability to work. You may also need proof of income, resources, and identity [2][8].
Yes, Washington's Paid Family and Medical Leave program provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave for serious health conditions, including COPD. The maximum weekly benefit is $1,542 in 2025 [5][9].
