Social Security + Disability Benefits
ABD is a Washington-specific short-term cash assistance program designed to support people during the long process of applying for disability / Social Security. If you have a disability (or are over 65) and are looking into getting on benefits, I’d suggest applying! More info on the DSHS website.
Already on Benefits and moving states?
Section titled “Already on Benefits and moving states?”Contact Social Security before you leave, if you can, or as soon as possible after you get to Washington.
* Phone: 800-772-1213
* TTY 800-325-0778
- If you already receive SSI, SSDI, or both, you will need to let Social Security know that you have moved states.
- The amount you receive may change. It may be recalculated based on your new living arrangements (having your own place versus living with your family, starting or ending a marriage, etc.)
- The amount you receive might also change based on what the state offers in addition to the Federal payment.
- Washington State theoretically offers a supplemental payment, but it seems like this program may not be accepting new applicants.
While you will continue to qualify for Medicaid (you don’t have to reapply!), moving states means you may have to do some extra paperwork to get your healthcare benefits started. You can ask about that when you call to update your address and bank account information. In WA State Medicaid is called Apple Health. See Apple Health + Insurance
You can also report changes to your information at a local Social Security office. There are several across Washington State. Search for the closest one here.
This article on receiving SSI when you don’t have a permanent address may be helpful as you get settled in Washington State.
Applying for Social Security benefits
Section titled “Applying for Social Security benefits”SSI vs SSDI
Section titled “SSI vs SSDI”SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) are both administered by the SSA (Social Security Administration), but both serve different populations. SSI supports any low-income folks who are disabled or 65+, while SSDI provides payments to those of any income who are disabled and have paid into the program from past work.
| Eligibility Criteria (must meet all) | SSI | SSDI |
|---|---|---|
| Income | Low-income | Any |
| Disability/Age | Disability OR 65+ | Must have a disability. Age factored in. |
| Work History | Any | Must have paid in |
You can do this quick SSA survey to figure out whether you may be eligible for one or both.
Applying for SSI
Section titled “Applying for SSI”If you are disabled and unable to work or unable to work enough to support yourself, you may qualify for Supplemental Social Security.
Current eligibility criteria (as of February 21 2025)
Section titled “Current eligibility criteria (as of February 21 2025)”Start your application:
Section titled “Start your application:”* Online https://www.ssa.gov/apply/ssi
* By Telephone: 1-800-772-1213
* Through TTY: 1-800-325-0778
* Through telecommunications relay services (TRS): 1-800-772-1213.
You will be told which documents you need to bring to your appointment.
Here’s a short list of some of the most important ones, so you know what kind of information you need access to.
* Your Social Security Number
* Your birth certificate or another proof of your age.
* Proof of your US citizenship or NonCitizen Status
* Proof of any money you’re currently making or resources you own, such as registration documents for vehicles or bank statements for savings or checking accounts.
* Medical information about your disability, including contact information for current or past medical providers and a full list of your prescription and non-prescription medications.
They will also want medical records, if you have them.
Here’s the full list, including examples of what counts as “proof.”
https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-documents-ussi.htm
A couple of important things to know:
- Social Security may ask for additional medical examination or testing as part of deciding your case. They will pay for it.
- If Social Security denies your case, you will have several options for appealing their decision. Don’t give up! And reach out to the local community for support. Others have been there.
Applying for SSDI:
Section titled “Applying for SSDI:”You may qualify for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) if:
* Disability prevents you from working, or working enough to support yourself
* And, you have worked in the past. Typically they’ll want you to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years, though their website says criteria may be different for people younger than 24.
See if you are eligible and learn how to apply
Section titled “See if you are eligible and learn how to apply”Useful guide by a community member
Other Age+Disability Benefits
Section titled “Other Age+Disability Benefits”Seattle Discount Cards
Section titled “Seattle Discount Cards”If you’re in Seattle and have a diagnosed disability, you may be eligible for the FLASH card. If you’re 60 or older, you’re eligible for the Gold Card. Both of these provide (or prove eligibility for) discounts throughout the city, on anything from utility bills to zoo admission.
Reduced transit fares
Section titled “Reduced transit fares”If you’re 65+, have a disability, or are on Medicare, you can get a Regional Reduced Fare Permit that allows you discounted fares on all area public transit networks. Those in the Seattle area can apply via King County Metro here, if you’re located elsewhere there are likely similar programs in your area. Search “{city/county} reduced fare”.
Employment Support
Section titled “Employment Support”Disabled but need or want employment? Pacific Associates is a local employment agency who expressly works with trans folks and specializes in helping those with disabilities find employment.
We’ve listed the main benefits programs here, but 211 has a list of a wealth of resources and programs serving disabled folks for thin. Check their searchable database or call 211 for more info.
Need caretaking?
Section titled “Need caretaking?”If you’re on Medicare/Disability, contact your plan administrator or social worker for help getting on long-term care. Various services are explained by DSHS here. Note that in most circumstances, this only receives limited medical coverage.
If you need caretaking or in-home support and don’t have funds, you may be able to access it via Medicaid (Apple Health) regardless of whether or not you have Medicare/Disability benefits (though being on benefits will likely make it easier). This is a complex process, but the way to access it seems to be through a Home and Community Services social worker. You can find your local HCS office here.