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Washington • Chronic Illness
People with HIV/AIDS in Washington can qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), state cash assistance (ABD), Medicaid, and paid leave programs. Eligibility depends on medical severity, income, and work history. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with HIV/AIDS, you must have a 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 Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI requires enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with 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 [3][8].
In Washington, people with HIV/AIDS may qualify for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance program if they are low-income, age 65 or older, blind, or have a health condition that stops them from working for at least 12 months. ABD is for those who are not eligible for SSI or are waiting for SSI approval. The program provides a monthly cash grant and helps with applying for SSI. You cannot get ABD if you are already receiving SSI benefits. Washington also offers a State Supplement to SSI, which increases monthly payments for eligible recipients [4][5].
Federal programs for people with HIV/AIDS include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those with a work history and enough Social Security credits. SSI is for people with limited income and resources. Both programs provide monthly cash benefits and may include Medicare or Medicaid coverage. The SSA determines eligibility based on medical severity and work limitations [3][8].
Washington offers several programs for people with HIV/AIDS:
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Washington residents with HIV/AIDS who became disabled before age 26 may qualify. Funds can be used for housing, education, and other expenses. Learn more about Washington ABLE accounts and how to open one [internal_links].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples. Washington’s State Supplement may increase these amounts. For ABD, income and resource limits are set by state rules. Check with DSHS for current limits [4][5].
If you get more benefits than you should, you may have to pay back the difference. Report changes in income, living situation, or medical status to DSHS or SSA right away. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate [1].
Contact your local DSHS office or a disability advocate for help with applications and paperwork. Many agencies offer free support for people with HIV/AIDS.
Yes, HIV/AIDS can qualify as a disability if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration uses medical criteria to decide if your condition meets the definition of disability [3][8].
ABD is a cash assistance program for low-income people who are age 65 or older, blind, or have a health condition that stops them from working for at least 12 months. It helps with bills while waiting for SSI/SSDI approval [5].
The federal SSI payment in 2025 is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples. Washington adds a State Supplement, which may increase your total monthly payment [4].
Yes, people with HIV/AIDS often qualify for Medicaid in Washington if they meet income and resource limits. Medicaid provides health coverage for medical care and treatment [5].
Gather medical records, decide if you qualify for SSDI or SSI, and apply online at SSA.gov or by phone. If you need help with bills while waiting, apply for ABD through DSHS [7][5].
Washington adds extra money to federal SSI payments to help recipients cover the high cost of living. The amount depends on your situation and is paid monthly [4].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Yes, you can try returning to work for up to 9 months without losing your full disability payment. This is called a trial work period. After that, benefits may be adjusted based on your earnings [9].
The program offers up to 12 weeks of paid leave for qualifying medical events, including treatment for HIV/AIDS. Premiums and benefits are updated each year [6].
Washington is phasing out the requirement to pay back ABD benefits once you qualify for SSI. The change takes effect in October 2025, so check with DSHS for current rules [1].
Resources include ABD cash assistance, Medicaid, SSI/SSDI, paid leave, and support services. Contact DSHS or local agencies for help applying and finding additional support [5][7].
