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Washington • Sensory
People who are Deaf in Washington may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI and SSI, as well as state programs such as ABD and the SSI State Supplement. Eligibility depends on medical severity, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Washington, your Deafness must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the same medical definition for all disabilities, including Deafness. There are two main programs:
If you are working, your monthly earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold. In 2025, this is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals. If you earn more, you may not qualify for benefits, even if your Deafness is severe[1][3][8].
Washington offers several programs for people who are Deaf and have low income or are waiting for federal disability approval. The Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance program provides up to $450 per month for single adults and $570 for couples. To qualify, you must be at least 18, have a health condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months, and meet income and resource limits. ABD is often used as a bridge while waiting for SSI approval, which can take about seven months on average. However, you cannot receive ABD if you are already getting SSI or SSDI benefits[5][2].
Washington also provides a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to SSI recipients. This extra cash helps cover the higher cost of living in the state. The amount varies based on your living situation and other income[4].
If you are temporarily unable to work due to Deafness, you may also qualify for Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program, which offers up to 12 weeks of paid leave for qualifying medical conditions[6][10].
ABLE accounts let people who are Deaf and became disabled before age 26 save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for education, housing, transportation, and other disability-related expenses. Washington residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program[3].
If you get too much money from SSI, SSDI, or ABD, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, living situation, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get an overpayment notice, contact the agency right away to discuss repayment options[2][5].
Contact your local Community Services Office or a disability advocate for help with applications and appeals.
Yes, if your Deafness is severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. The Social Security Administration uses the same rules for all disabilities[3][8].
You can apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records, work history, and proof of income. The process is the same for all disabilities[1][3].
ABD is a cash assistance program for low-income people who are Deaf and meet disability criteria. It provides up to $450 per month and helps while you wait for SSI approval. You cannot get ABD if you already receive SSI or SSDI[5][2].
Yes, Washington provides a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to SSI recipients. This extra cash helps cover the higher cost of living and is paid automatically with your SSI check[4].
Yes, but your monthly earnings must be below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold. In 2025, this is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals. Social Security has work incentives to help you try returning to work without losing benefits[1][9].
In 2025, the federal SSI income limit is $967 per month for individuals. Washington’s State Supplement may add more. Resources must be under $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples[4][5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with an expert or official agency for your specific situation.
On average, it takes about seven months to get SSI approval in Washington. ABD can provide temporary cash help while you wait[2][5].
This program offers up to 12 weeks of paid leave for people who are Deaf and need time off for medical reasons. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,542[6][10].
Yes, if you receive SSI or have low income, you may qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid can cover hearing aids and other services for people who are Deaf[3][8].
An ABLE account lets people who are Deaf and became disabled before age 26 save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Washington residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program[3].
