If you have a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in Washington, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, and state programs such as ABD cash assistance. Eligibility depends on your work history, income, and how your TBI affects your ability to work. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with a traumatic brain injury in Washington, your condition must stop you from doing 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 SSDI and SSI. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes. In 2025, most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. For SSI, your income and resources must be limited, regardless of work history. If you earn more than $1,550 per month (non-blind) or $2,590 (blind), you may not qualify for SSDI or SSI, unless your work attempt was unsuccessful due to your disability[1][3][8].
In Washington, people with traumatic brain injury may also qualify for state programs. The Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) cash assistance program offers up to $450 per month for singles and $570 for couples, but only if you are not already receiving SSI or SSDI. ABD is for those who are likely to meet SSI disability criteria and have very low income. You must apply for federal disability benefits before getting ABD. Washington also provides a State Supplementary Payment (SSP) to boost SSI payments for eligible residents. If you are homeless or have a mental health disability, you may qualify for extra support. The payback requirement for ABD benefits is being phased out, but some recipients may still need to repay if they later get federal benefits[2][4][5].
Washington residents with a traumatic brain injury may qualify for an ABLE account. This is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities that lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, education, housing, and transportation. To open an account, you must have a disability that started before age 26 and meet other requirements[internal_links].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Washington’s SSP may add more to this amount. For ABD, your income must be very low, and you cannot be receiving SSI or SSDI. The exact limits change yearly and depend on your living situation. Check with your local Community Services Office for current figures[4][5].
If your condition improves or your income changes, you must report it to Social Security and Washington state agencies. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to repay. Keep records of all communications and updates. If you get an overpayment notice, you can request a waiver or set up a repayment plan[internal_links].
Contact your local Community Services Office or a disability advocate for help with your application. They can guide you through the process and answer questions.
Yes, if your traumatic brain injury stops you from working for at least 12 months and meets Social Security’s medical criteria. You may qualify for SSDI, SSI, or state programs like ABD or SSP.
SSDI payments depend on your work history. SSI is $967/month for individuals in 2025, plus a possible state supplement. ABD offers up to $450/month for singles. Paid leave is up to $1,542/week.
Yes, you must apply for federal SSDI or SSI before you can get Washington’s ABD cash assistance or SSP. State programs are often a bridge while you wait for federal approval.
Washington offers extra support for homeless people and those with mental health disabilities. You may qualify for ABD, HEN, or other services. Contact your local Community Services Office for help.
You can try to work, but if you earn more than $1,550/month (non-blind) or $2,590/month (blind), you may not qualify. Short work attempts that fail due to your disability are allowed.
SSP is extra money for SSI recipients in Washington to help with the high cost of living. The amount depends on your living situation and other income.
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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Gather medical records, check your work credits or income, and apply for SSDI or SSI online, by phone, or in person. Then apply for state programs like ABD or SSP.
You can appeal within 60 days. You may request a reconsideration, a hearing, or further review. Get help from a disability lawyer or advocate if needed.
Yes, Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program offers up to 12 weeks of paid leave for eligible employees with a serious health condition, including TBI.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can use it for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid. You must have a disability that started before age 26.
