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Washington • Rare/Genetic
People with Cystic Fibrosis in Washington may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid, cash assistance, and supplementary payments. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Cystic Fibrosis, you must have a severe medical condition that prevents you from doing 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. Both programs require that your condition meets SSA’s criteria for disability, including significant limitations on your ability to work[1][3][8].
In Washington, people with Cystic Fibrosis may also qualify for state-specific programs. The Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance program provides monthly grants to low-income individuals who are disabled and likely to meet SSI criteria. The maximum monthly grant is $450 for singles and $570 for married couples. Washington also offers a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to SSI recipients, which adds extra money to federal SSI payments. To qualify for these state programs, you must meet income and resource requirements and be working to apply for federal benefits like SSI or SSDI[5][4].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Washington residents with Cystic Fibrosis can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses. Contributions are tax-free, and funds can be used for housing, education, and more[internal_link_ABLE_Accounts].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Washington’s ABD program has its own income and resource limits, which are stricter. Check with DSHS for current limits[5][4].
If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Washington is phasing out the payback requirement for ABD recipients once they get federal benefits, but it still applies until October 2025[2].
Contact your local DSHS office or a disability advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and help you appeal if denied.
Yes, Cystic Fibrosis can qualify for disability if it severely limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least 12 months. You must meet SSA’s medical criteria and apply for SSI or SSDI[1][3][8].
SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a work history and enough work credits. Both programs use the same medical definition of disability[1][3][8].
SSI pays $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples in 2025. SSDI amount depends on your earnings record. Washington also offers extra state supplements and cash grants[4][5].
Yes, you can work part-time and still get benefits under certain rules. Social Security allows a trial work period and recognizes unsuccessful work attempts due to disability[1][10].
ABD is a cash assistance program for low-income disabled adults. It provides a monthly grant and helps bridge the gap while waiting for federal benefits. Max $450/month for singles, $570/month for married couples[5].
Apply for federal benefits online at SSA.gov or in person. Apply for state programs like ABD and SSP through DSHS. You can also use the Washington Connection portal to apply for multiple benefits at once[1][5][9].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
SSP is extra money for SSI recipients in Washington. It helps cover the cost of living and is paid in addition to federal SSI payments. Amount varies based on living situation[4].
Yes, people with Cystic Fibrosis may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and disability criteria. Medicaid covers health care, medications, and long-term care services[9].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Washington residents with Cystic Fibrosis can open an ABLE account for disability-related expenses[internal_link_ABLE_Accounts].
Washington is phasing out the payback requirement for ABD recipients once they get federal benefits, but it still applies until October 2025. After that, you won’t have to pay back ABD benefits[2].
