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How to Apply for Disability Benefits in Washington

Written by

Jackie Jakab

Lead Attorney

Published May 29, 2024

1 min read

Why trust us?

Atticus offers free, high-quality disability advice for Americans who can't work. Our team of Stanford and Harvard-trained lawyers has a combined 15+ years of legal experience and has helped over 50,000 Americans apply for disability benefits.

See if you qualify

If you live in Washington state and are unable to work due to a disability, you may be eligible for federal disability benefits. More than 300,000 Washingtonians currently receive disability assistance through programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Read on to learn everything you need to know about disability benefits in the Evergreen State, from eligibility criteria to the application process.

Disability benefits in Washington

While Washington does not offer a state-specific disability program, there are several federal and private options available to you.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI provides financial assistance and Medicare to individuals unable to work due to long-term disabilities. To qualify, you must have a sufficient work history and have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes — typically for five of the last 10 years. In Washington, the average monthly SSDI payout is $1,798.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): If you have limited income and resources, you may be eligible for SSI, which offers monthly payments to help cover basic needs. SSI also includes Medicaid coverage to assist with medical expenses. The average monthly SSI payment in Washington is $624.
Veteran disability benefits: Veterans who suffer from disabilities due to their military service may qualify for benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Private disability insurance: If you have private disability insurance — either through your employer or purchased on your own — you can access benefits through this coverage. These plans provide short-term or long-term financial support depending on policy details.
Workers' compensation: If your disability is due to a workplace injury or illness, you may be able to access workers’ comp benefits. These benefits cover medical expenses and lost wages that are a result of work-related injuries.

We've helped 4,241 people in Washington with disability benefits.

Should I apply for disability in Washington?

Disability benefits are available to anyone who meets certain qualifications. Before you apply, there are several factors to consider:

Medical eligibility: In order to receive SSI or SSDI benefits in Washington, your medical condition must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. Your disability has to significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities and be expected to last at least one year or result in death.
Work history requirements for SSDI: SSDI is for anyone who has a work history and has paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. You need to have sufficient "work credits," which are earned by working and paying Social Security taxes for at least five of the last 10 years. Learn more about how work credits are accrued.
Financial criteria for SSI: If your work history does not meet the requirements for SSDI, or if you have never been able to work, SSI might be the best option for you. It’s aimed at helping individuals with limited income and assets. The SSA will assess your financial situation to make sure you fall within the set limits for income and resources.

How to apply for disability in Washington

There are several ways to apply for disability benefits in Washington. These include:

Online: You can apply for both SSDI and SSI benefits online. Visit the Social Security Administration's website at SSA.gov to get started.
Phone: If you prefer to speak to someone, you can call the Social Security Administration directly. By applying over the phone, you can ask questions and get immediate answers as you fill out the application.
In person: You can also apply in person at your local Social Security office. Be sure to make an appointment to reduce your wait time.

Understanding the Application Process

The process of applying for disability benefits includes several stages:

Initial application: Start by completing the required forms, including Form SSA-16 for SSDI and the SSI application form for SSI benefits. Submit these along with any medical and work history documentation you can provide. Incomplete or inaccurate applications are common reasons for denial, so be as thorough as possible. 20% of disability applications are approved at this stage.
Reconsideration: Initial applications are often denied, but you can request a reconsideration within 60 days. A different set of eyes at the SSA will complete a new review of your application. 10% of applications are approved at the reconsideration stage.
Hearing: If reconsideration does not result in approval, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. During a hearing, you will have a chance to argue your case. 83% of applicants have some legal representation by this stage.

SSA offices in Washington

The easiest way to apply for disability benefits is online. But you can also do it in person at your local SSA office or contact them if you have questions. Across Washington, SSA offices are staffed by knowledgeable workers who can provide assistance and help streamline the application process.

Bellevue

636 120th Ave NE Ste 100

Bellevue, WA 98005