In Washington, people with Spina Bifida can access federal disability benefits, state help, and ABLE accounts. Every program has rules for who qualifies, how to apply, and how benefits work. This guide explains SSI, SSDI, Washington State Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) assistance, and how to get help applying for benefits.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you need a severe medical condition—such as Spina Bifida—that is expected to last at least one year or result in death, and that prevents you from working at a level called “substantial gainful activity” (SGA)[3]. The federal government offers two main programs:
Both programs require medical proof (doctors’ reports, test results, etc.) that your Spina Bifida severely limits your ability to work or function[3]. The Social Security Administration evaluates all applications under strict medical and non-medical rules[3].
Washington offers extra help for people with disabilities, including Spina Bifida, who are waiting for federal approval or have very low income[4][6]. The main state program is the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Cash Assistance Program. To qualify for ABD, you must:
If you are already getting SSI, you can’t get ABD, but you may qualify for a State Supplemental Payment (SSP) to add to your federal SSI check[5]. So, Washington residents with Spina Bifida can access both federal and state benefits if they meet the rules.
Quick start for Spina Bifida benefits in Washington:
Step-by-step: Applying for Spina Bifida benefits in Washington
Federal disability programs available in Washington for those with Spina Bifida include:
| Program | Who Qualifies | 2025 Max Benefit | Key Details | |--------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------| | SSDI | Adults with enough work credits and severe disability | Varies by work history | Based on work, not income/resources[1][3] | | SSI | Adults/children with severe disability and low income/resources | $967/month (individual) | Strict income/resource limits; children can qualify[3][5] |
Both programs require medical proof that Spina Bifida causes “marked and severe functional limitations.”[3] Applications are reviewed by Washington’s Disability Determination Services (DDS)[7]. If you are denied, you can appeal.
Washington offers several state-specific supports for people with Spina Bifida:
| Program | Who Qualifies | 2025 Benefit | Key Details | |-------------|------------------------------------------------|----------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------| | ABD | Adults (18+), 65+, or blind; low income/resources; pursuing federal disability benefits | $450/month (individual); $570/month (couple) | Helps while waiting for SSI; provides case management, help applying for SSI, and referral to HEN (Housing and Essential Needs)[4][6]. Must cooperate with SSI application process[6]. | | SSP | SSI recipients | Varies | Washington adds money to federal SSI payments for some recipients[5]. | | HEN | ABD recipients | Varies | Referral for housing help, essential needs items, and case management[4][6]. |
WA Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) is available for working Washingtonians who need time off to care for themselves or a family member with a disability, including Spina Bifida. Premiums and benefits are set annually (in 2025, up to 12 weeks paid leave; total premium rate 0.92%)[9][10].
Washington residents with Spina Bifida may consider an ABLE account (Achieving a Better Life Experience). These accounts allow people with disabilities to save money (up to $100,000) without losing eligibility for federal and state benefits. Earnings are tax-free, and the account can be used for disability-related expenses. For more details, see our ABLE Accounts guide.
For SSI, income limits are strict. In 2025, a single person can earn up to $967/month in federal benefits, but Washington may add a supplemental payment. If you work, earning over $1,550/month (non-blind) counts as “substantial gainful activity” and may disqualify you from SSDI[1]. For ABD, income and resource limits are set by Washington State; check the Washington Connection portal for details[4][6].
Income rules are complex—use the SSI Income Estimator or talk to a benefits counselor to plan work and benefits.
If you get too much money from SSI, SSDI, or ABD, you may have to pay it back. Always report changes in income, living situation, or health to Social Security and DSHS. See our Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide for tips.
If your SSI, SSDI, or ABD application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Many people are approved after an appeal—so don’t give up. Get help from a legal aid office, DSHS, or your ABD facilitator.
If you are homeless or at risk, let your DSHS or HEN caseworker know. You may get extra help with shelter, housing, or essential needs. Nearly 30% of ABD recipients in Washington are homeless, so special supports are available[2][4].
Yes, children with Spina Bifida and limited family income/resources can qualify for SSI. A parent or guardian must apply, and medical records must show significant functional limitations[3].
SSI is for people with low income/resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for adults who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both require proof that Spina Bifida severely limits daily activities or work. For a full comparison, see **SSI vs SSDI**[3].
In 2025, ABD pays up to $450 for one person or $570 for a married couple per month. ABD is a bridge while you wait for SSI; once you get SSI, ABD stops[4][6].
Yes, Washington’s State Supplemental Program (SSP) may add money to federal SSI checks for some recipients. The amount depends on your living situation and other factors[5].
You may qualify for SSI or SSDI even if you work some, but earning above $1,550/month in 2025 (non-blind) usually disqualifies you for SSDI[1]. SSI has strict income rules. Learn more at **SSI & SSDI Work Incentives**.
You have the right to appeal. Many claims are denied at first but approved on appeal. Contact a legal aid office or DSHS for help with your appeal[1].
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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Tip: If you are homeless or need urgent help, tell your caseworker. Nearly 30% of ABD recipients in Washington are homeless, so ask about special programs and supports[2].
Apply online through Washington Connection or visit a DSHS office. You’ll need proof of identity, income, resources, and your Spina Bifida diagnosis[4][6].
Yes, most SSI and SSDI recipients qualify for Medicaid in Washington. Adults with low income and a disability may also qualify under the ABD program. See **Medicaid vs Medicare** for details.
The ABD and HEN programs help people who are homeless or at risk. If you’re homeless, tell your DSHS or HEN caseworker for extra support accessing shelters, housing, and essentials[2][4].
