Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Cash Assistance Program

What it is:

Aged, Blind, or Disabled is a state-funded program that provides cash assistance and a referral to the Housing and Essential Needs program to eligible low-income individuals who are age 65 or older, blind or determined likely to meet Supplemental Security Income disability criteria based on an impairment(s) expected to last at least 12 consecutive months.

This program provides maximum monthly cash grant of $417 for a single individual or $528 for a married couple. ABD recipients are also eligible for assistance applying for SSI benefits (SSI Facilitation).

Who is eligible:

Individuals residing in Washington state who:

  • Are age 65 or older, blind or have a long-term medical condition that is likely to meet federal disability criteria.
  • Are at least 18 years old or, if under 18, a member of a married couple.
  • Meet income and resource requirements.
  • Meet citizenship / alien status requirements.
NOTE: 
Persons, who are not federally qualified for Modified Adjusted Gross Income medical programs may qualify for health care through the Medical Care Services program, when eligible for the ABD or HEN Referral programs. Please refer to the Apple Health (Medicaid) Manual for MCS program summary information.

You cannot get Aged, Blind or Disabled cash assistance if you:

  • Are eligible for the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families or State Family Assistance program.
  • Do not pursue federal aid assistance (e.g. Medicaid) without good cause.
  • Do not participate in substance use disorder treatment (when required) without good cause.
  • Do not follow through with the SSI application process without good cause.
  • Are eligible for SSI benefits or are an ineligible spouse of an SSI recipient.
  • Do not follow a Social Security Administration program rule or application requirement and SSA denied or terminated your benefits.

How to Apply For Cash Benefits:

You can apply for Cash Assistance online, by phone at 877-501-2233 or at your local Community Services Office.
 

The Application for Benefits is available in several languages. 

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