If you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Washington, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These programs can help cover living costs, medical care, and support services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what resources are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), your condition must be severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the same medical definition for all disabilities, including OCD. You must show that your symptoms are so strong that you cannot do substantial work, even with treatment. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and few resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof from doctors and may need extra documentation for mental health conditions like OCD[1][4][8].
In Washington, people with OCD may qualify for extra help if they meet state rules. The Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance program offers monthly grants to low-income people who are likely to qualify for federal SSI. ABD is for those who are temporarily disabled or waiting for SSI approval. The maximum monthly grant is $450 for a single person or $570 for a couple. You cannot get ABD if you already receive SSI or SSDI. Washington also offers a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to boost SSI payments for those who qualify. The SSP helps cover higher living costs in the state. To get these benefits, you must meet income and resource limits and follow all application steps[2][5][6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Washington residents can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses. These accounts have annual and lifetime limits. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how they work with SSI/SSDI[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. You must report all income changes to avoid overpayments. Use the SSI income estimator tool to check your eligibility[internal_link_SSI_Income_Estimator].
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to SSA or DSHS. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Learn how to avoid overpayments and what to do if you get one[internal_link_Avoiding_Overpayments_Reporting_Changes].
Local agencies and legal aid groups can help you apply for disability benefits. They can also help with appeals if your claim is denied.
Yes, if your OCD is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. You must meet income and work credit rules. Washington also offers extra help through ABD and SSP programs.
You need records from your doctor or mental health provider showing your diagnosis, treatment, and how OCD limits your daily life and work. The SSA will review this to decide if you qualify.
SSDI payments depend on your work history. SSI is $967/month for individuals in 2025, plus a Washington SSP boost. ABD offers up to $450/month while you wait for federal approval.
If you earn more than $1,550/month (non-blind) in 2025, you may not qualify. But short work attempts that fail due to your disability won’t disqualify you. Learn about work incentives and trial periods[internal_link_SSI_SSDI_Work_Incentives].
ABD is a cash grant for low-income people with disabilities who are waiting for SSI approval. It offers up to $450/month for singles and helps with housing and utility needs.
Yes, you must report any changes to SSA or DSHS. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits. Always update your information promptly.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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You can appeal the decision. Washington agencies offer help with appeals. You may need to provide more medical proof or attend a hearing.
Yes, if you get SSI or ABD, you may qualify for Medicaid. This covers health care costs for people with disabilities.
It can take several months to get federal approval. Washington’s ABD program can help while you wait. The average wait for SSI is about seven months.
SSP is extra money for SSI recipients in Washington to help with higher living costs. It is paid in addition to your federal SSI payment.
