People with Parkinson’s Disease in Washington can qualify for federal disability programs like SSDI and SSI, plus Medicaid and state supplements. The process involves proving your condition prevents work for at least 12 months and meeting income or work credit requirements.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Parkinson’s Disease, you must have a condition that prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death[2]. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the same medical definition for both SSDI and SSI. For 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 before becoming disabled[1]. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources, regardless of work history[2].
If you earn more than $1,550 per month (non-blind) in 2025, you are generally not eligible for SSDI or SSI, unless your work attempt was unsuccessful due to your disability[1].
Washington does not have a state-run disability insurance program, so residents rely on federal SSDI and SSI for income support[5]. However, Washington does offer a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to SSI recipients, which adds extra money to your monthly SSI check[3]. This supplement helps cover the higher cost of living in Washington.
Washington Medicaid (Apple Health) covers people with disabilities and provides access to long-term care, home and community-based services (HCBS), and support for daily living[6]. Medicaid waivers can help pay for in-home care, adult day services, and other supports for people with Parkinson’s Disease[6].
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. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses do not count as income for SSI or Medicaid[5].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples[3]. Washington’s SSP may add more to this amount. SSDI has no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than $1,550 per month from work and still qualify[1].
If your condition or income changes, you must report it to the SSA to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Always report changes in your health, work, or living situation as soon as possible[5].
If you need help with your application, contact a local disability advocate or lawyer. They can help you gather documents and appeal if needed.
Yes, Parkinson’s Disease can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months. You must provide medical proof and meet income or work credit requirements[2].
No, Washington does not have a state disability insurance program. Residents must apply for federal SSDI or SSI for income support[5].
The SSP is extra money added to SSI payments for eligible recipients in Washington. It helps cover the higher cost of living and is paid by the state[3].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or in person. Submit medical records, work history, and proof of income. Most applications are denied at first, so be ready to appeal[5].
The average SSDI payment in Washington is about $1,371 per month. The exact amount depends on your work history and how much you paid into Social Security[5].
Yes, you can try to work for up to 9 months without losing your full disability payment. This is called a trial work period. After that, you may still get benefits if you earn less than $1,550 per month[9].
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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Washington Medicaid (Apple Health) covers people with disabilities and offers waivers for home and community-based services. These programs help pay for in-home care and support services[6].
Report any changes in your health, income, or living situation to the SSA as soon as possible. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits[5].
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Washington residents can open an ABLE account to save for disability-related expenses[5].
It takes an average of 6.1 months to get an initial decision in Washington. Most people are denied at first and need to appeal, which can take up to two years[5].
