Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Washington
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Washington [2025 Edition]
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first
- If you or your child is in immediate danger: Call 911.
- For a mental health or substance use crisis: Call or text 988 (24/7).
- Washington Recovery Help Line (mental health, substance use, problem gambling): 1‑866‑789‑1511. (hca.wa.gov)
- Non‑emergency resource navigation: Dial 211 to reach Washington 211 (local referrals for housing, food, utilities, legal help).
Quick Help Box
- Apple Health for Kids (Medicaid): Apply via Washington Healthplanfinder or call WithinReach Apple Health Hotline 206‑204‑3503 for application help. See income charts below. (hca.wa.gov)
- DDA (Developmental Disabilities Administration) services: Request IFS or CIIBS waivers; regional phone numbers listed in this guide. Start with the DDA services request form or call your region (numbers below). (manuals.dshs.wa.gov, dshs.wa.gov)
- Birth‑to‑3 Early Intervention (ESIT): Call Help Me Grow Washington 1‑800‑322‑2588 to get connected to a Family Resources Coordinator in your county. (dcyf.wa.gov, dshs.wa.gov)
- K‑12 special education/IEP help: Call OSPI Special Education 360‑725‑6075 for Procedural Safeguards and dispute options; or OEO Ombuds 1‑866‑297‑2597 for parent help. (ospi.k12.wa.us, oeo.wa.gov)
- Cash and food assistance: Apply for TANF/ABD/Basic Food (SNAP) at WashingtonConnection.org or call DSHS 877‑501‑2233. SNAP maximum amounts for Oct 2024–Sep 2025 are listed below. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (Medicaid): Call your county broker (e.g., King County: 1‑800‑923‑7433, Hopelink). Full broker list is below. (hca.wa.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (Save or screenshot)
Program | Who to contact | Key number or link |
---|---|---|
Apple Health for Kids | WithinReach hotline | 206‑204‑3503; income charts below. (hca.wa.gov) |
DDA services (IFS/CIIBS, CFC) | DDA Regional Intake | Region 2 King County 1‑800‑974‑4428; more numbers below. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov) |
Early Intervention (birth‑3) | Help Me Grow | 1‑800‑322‑2588 (statewide referral). (dcyf.wa.gov) |
Special Education rights | OSPI | 360‑725‑6075 (Procedural Safeguards). (ospi.k12.wa.us) |
Paid Family & Medical Leave | WA Paid Leave | Max weekly benefit $1,542 in 2025. (paidleave.wa.gov) |
TANF cash | DSHS | Payment standard for family of 3: $706/month. (law.cornell.edu) |
ABD cash (for disabled adults) | DSHS | Single 450∗∗,marriedcouple∗∗450**, married couple **570. (apps.leg.wa.gov) |
SNAP (Basic Food) | DSHS | Max for 3: 768∗∗,for4:∗∗768**, for 4: **975 (10/1/2024–9/30/2025). (fns-prod.azureedge.us) |
WIC | WA DOH WIC | WIC Cascades Support 1‑800‑841‑1410; card help 1‑844‑359‑3104. (doh.wa.gov) |
Apple Health (Medicaid) for Kids and Youth with Disabilities
Why this matters: Apple Health pays for medical, therapies, behavioral health, ABA (as medically necessary), and durable medical equipment. It is the gateway to non‑emergency medical transportation, many therapies under EPSDT, and wraparound behavioral services.
Who qualifies: Washington Apple Health for Kids offers free or low‑cost coverage depending on household income. HCA publishes monthly income limits and low‑premium tiers.
- Free Apple Health for Kids monthly income limits (examples, effective through annual April updates):
- Family of 1: $2,804
- Family of 2: $3,790
- Family of 3: $4,775
- Family of 4: $5,760. (hca.wa.gov)
- Apple Health for Kids with premiums (uninsured children):
- Tier 1: 20perchild∗∗,∗∗20 per child**, **40 family max; e.g., family of 4 monthly income up to $7,099.
- Tier 2: 30perchild∗∗,∗∗30 per child**, **60 family max; e.g., family of 4 monthly income up to $8,492. (hca.wa.gov)
- How to apply: Online at Washington Healthplanfinder or call WithinReach 206‑204‑3503 for help completing the application. (hca.wa.gov)
- Coverage start: First day of the month the application is submitted; ProviderOne card arrives in about two weeks. (hca.wa.gov)
- Transportation: If enrolled, you can book rides to covered medical visits through your county broker (taxis, wheelchair vans, bus passes, gas vouchers). Book 7–14 days ahead. Broker list/phones below. (hca.wa.gov)
Required documents:
- Proof of Washington residence, household income, child’s SSN/ITIN if available, dates of birth, and immigration information if it applies. Coverage can be available in many situations regardless of immigration status; ask WithinReach. (hca.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Denied or delayed: Call HCA Customer Service 1‑800‑562‑3022 and ask for case review; escalate via HCA Support. (hca.wa.gov)
DDA Services (Home & Community‑Based Waivers, Respite, In‑Home Supports)
Why this matters: DDA waivers fund respite, specialized equipment, home/vehicle adaptations, behavior supports, and more to keep your child at home and safe.
Main waivers for children: Individual & Family Services (IFS) and Children’s Intensive In‑Home Behavioral Supports (CIIBS). Washington’s waiver amendments effective January 1, 2025 confirm service arrays and updates. (dshs.wa.gov)
IFS annual allocations (current)
IFS level | Annual allocation cap |
---|---|
Level 1 | $1,560 |
Level 2 | $2,340 |
Level 3 | $3,120 |
Level 4 | $4,680 |
Source: WAC 388‑845‑0230 and assessment rule WAC 388‑828‑9140 (updated levels). (law.cornell.edu, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
CIIBS key annual service limits (examples)
- Assistive tech, environmental adaptations, nurse delegation, specialized equipment/clothing, transportation, vehicle mods: up to $15,000/year combined.
- Equine therapy, music therapy, peer mentoring, person‑centered plan facilitation: up to $5,000/year combined.
- Emergency assistance: up to $6,000/year (for defined crisis needs).
- Therapeutic adaptations: single authorization up to $15,000 once every five waiver years.
- Some services (e.g., respite, stabilization) are based on assessed need rather than a fixed dollar cap. (law.cornell.edu, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
Specialized Habilitation/“Life Skills” limits under waivers
- IFS: Counts toward your annual IFS allocation.
- CIIBS: Limited within the 15,000∗∗aggregateand∗∗15,000** aggregate and **6,000 emergency assistance when eligible. (regulations.justia.com, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
How to apply fast
- Step 1 — Determine eligibility: Apply for DDA eligibility and enrollment. Start at the DDA portal. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Step 2 — Request a waiver: If already a DDA client, ask your case manager to enroll you on IFS or CIIBS. If you don’t have a case manager, call your region:
- Region 1A (Chelan, Douglas, Ferry, Grant, Lincoln, Okanogan, Pend Oreille, Spokane, Stevens): 1‑800‑319‑7116.
- Region 1B (Adams, Asotin, Benton, Columbia, Franklin, Garfield, Grant, Kittitas, Klickitat, Walla Walla, Whitman, Yakima): 1‑866‑715‑3646.
- Region 2A (Island, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Whatcom): 1‑800‑567‑5582.
- Region 2B (King): 1‑800‑974‑4428.
- Region 3A (Kitsap, Pierce): 1‑800‑735‑6740.
- Region 3B (Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, Skamania, Thurston, Wahkiakum): 1‑888‑707‑1202. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
- Important reality check: Waiver programs are not an entitlement; IFS is actively enrolling but some services may have limited openings. Personal care under Medicaid’s Community First Choice is an entitlement if you qualify. (dshs.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about state‑funded IFS/SSP alternatives if waivers are full. Some legacy state‑funded IFS or State Supplemental Payments (SSP) options exist for specific groups, but new enrollment is restricted; your case manager can advise. (law.cornell.edu)
Early Intervention (Birth–3) through ESIT
Action first: If you suspect a delay or disability, call Help Me Grow Washington 1‑800‑322‑2588 and ask for your local Family Resources Coordinator. You don’t need a doctor’s referral. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Eligibility basics: Typically a 25% delay in one or more areas or a diagnosed condition known to cause delays. Services are developed in an IFSP; transition planning happens before age 3. (dcyf.wa.gov, dcyf.wa.gov)
- Language access: Interpreters available. See ESIT pages for multilingual materials. (dcyf.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you turn three before services begin, contact your school district for evaluation under IDEA Part B and call OSPI Special Education 360‑725‑6075 for rights and dispute options. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
K‑12 Special Education and IEPs
Start here: Put your evaluation request in writing to your school and keep a copy. Ask for “Procedural Safeguards” and support from OSPI.
- Parent and student rights: Schools must provide a Procedural Safeguards notice annually and at key times (initial referral, first complaint/year, discipline change of placement, upon request). OSPI Special Education main line: 360‑725‑6075 (TTY 360‑664‑3631). (ospi.k12.wa.us, apps.leg.wa.gov)
- Dispute options: IEP facilitation, mediation, community complaint, or due process hearing; details and contacts on OSPI’s site. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Independent Ombuds help: Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO)—parent‑focused support, phone interpretation in 150+ languages: 1‑866‑297‑2597. (oeo.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call OEO to troubleshoot; consider mediation via OSPI; consult Disability Rights Washington or PAVE resources for more detailed guidance. (ospi.k12.wa.us, disabilityrightswa.org, wapave.org)
SNAP (Basic Food), WIC, and Nutrition Supports
SNAP (Basic Food) maximum benefit amounts (Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025)
Household size | Max monthly SNAP |
---|---|
1 | $292 |
2 | $536 |
3 | $768 |
4 | $975 |
5 | $1,158 |
6 | $1,390 |
7 | $1,536 |
8 | $1,756 |
Each additional | +$220 |
Source: USDA FNS, FY 2025 SNAP maximum allotments. Apply through DSHS. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Categorical Eligibility: Many WA households qualify up to 200% FPL under state categorical eligibility rules—ask DSHS during application. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Standard deductions and other calculation rules are on DSHS Basic Food pages. (dshs.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for expedited SNAP if you have little/no income; check your denial notice and appeal timelines; call DSHS 877‑501‑2233.
WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
- Get started: WIC Cascades Support Line 1‑800‑841‑1410; find clinics statewide; WIC card help 1‑844‑359‑3104. (doh.wa.gov)
- Fruit & vegetable cash‑value benefit (CVB) amounts were finalized nationally in April 2024; states are implementing per the final rule. Current federal CVB amounts: children 26/month∗∗,∗∗pregnant/postpartum26/month**, **pregnant/postpartum 47, fully breastfeeding $52 (check with your clinic for current state implementation). (wicworks.fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call WIC Cascades; use the WICShopper app’s “Couldn’t buy this” feature for product problems; report to wawicfoods@doh.wa.gov. (doh.wa.gov)
Cash Assistance Options (when work isn’t possible due to your child’s care needs or your own disability)
TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Payment standards (max) effective Jan 1, 2024 (examples):
- Family of 3: 706/month∗∗;∗∗Familyof4∗∗:∗∗706/month**; **Family of 4**: **833/month. (law.cornell.edu)
- Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA): One‑time up to $2,000 in a 12‑month period (for urgent needs if you don’t need monthly TANF). (dshs.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about a TANF Time‑Limit Extension if caring for a disabled family member; if you can’t qualify, consider ABD/HEN below. (dshs.wa.gov)
ABD (Aged, Blind, or Disabled) cash + HEN referral
- ABD cash: 450/month∗∗(single)or∗∗450/month** (single) or **570/month (married couple); helps while applying for SSI. Automatically refers you to HEN for rent/utility essentials where funds are available. (dshs.wa.gov)
- HEN: Local providers can help with hygiene items, transportation, and often rent/utility assistance (funding varies by county). Apply via DSHS; if eligible, connect with your local HEN provider. (dshs.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If denied ABD but still temporarily unable to work (90+ days), ask for a HEN referral eligibility review. (dshs.wa.gov)
Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML)
- How much: Up to 90% of your weekly pay, capped at $1,542/week in 2025. (paidleave.wa.gov)
- Premiums: Starting Jan 1, 2025, total premium 0.92% of wages (employees pay 71.52%, employers 28.48%; small employers <50 employees don’t pay the employer share). (esd.wa.gov, paidleave.wa.gov)
- Processing timelines: Applications typically processed in 3–4 weeks; plan ahead for documentation and employer notice. (paidleave.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use the benefit estimator and call PFML if your claim stalls; ask your employer to designate paid time off as a supplemental benefit so it doesn’t reduce PFML payments. (paidleave.wa.gov)
Transportation to Medical Appointments (Apple Health)
- Call your county broker to book rides to covered medical care. Examples: King County—Hopelink 1‑800‑923‑7433; Snohomish—Hopelink 1‑855‑766‑7433; Pierce—Paratransit 1‑800‑925‑5438. Book 7–14 days ahead. Full directory on HCA’s page. (hca.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your broker about gas vouchers or mileage reimbursement; escalate issues through HCA Customer Service 1‑800‑562‑3022. (hca.wa.gov, hca.wa.gov)
Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) for parents in work, training, or TANF
- Income limits and copays: Washington moved WCCC to State Median Income (SMI) based eligibility. Copays vary by SMI band. DCYF posts monthly income charts by family size and copay bands. Example from DCYF’s chart: family of 3 shows countable income thresholds up to 6,880∗∗(756,880** (75% SMI) and exit up to **7,797 (85% SMI). Copays range from 0∗∗to∗∗0** to **215 depending on SMI band. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- ECEAP/Head Start staff: Special pathway at up to 85% SMI with potential no‑cost care per Oct 2024 policy update. (dcyf.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your worker about good cause or grace periods for paperwork; if you lose WCCC due to a temporary income spike, ask about 12‑month eligibility rules and exit thresholds that may keep you enrolled.
SSI for Children with Disabilities (federal cash benefit)
- 2025 Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) (max before state supplements): 967/month∗∗(individual),∗∗967/month** (individual), **1,450/month (eligible couple). Washington may also pay state supplements in limited situations—ask DSHS if applicable. (ssa.gov)
- Work rules and school exclusions (for teens): 2025 student earned‑income exclusion up to $9,460/year; SGA levels updated annually. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If denied due to income (“deeming”), ask SSA about impairment‑related work expenses, child disability standards, and SSI appeals timelines; call DSHS ABD unit for help with SSI facilitation. (dshs.wa.gov)
Washington State Working Families Tax Credit (cash refund during tax time)
- Refund amounts (Tax Year 2024, filed in 2025): Up to 1,290∗∗dependingonnumberofqualifyingchildrenandincome;individualswithoutchildrenmayreceiveupto∗∗1,290** depending on number of qualifying children and income; individuals without children may receive up to **325. Apply Feb 1–Dec 31, 2025 (you can also apply retroactively for up to three prior years if eligible). (dor.wa.gov)
- How to apply: Online at WFTC.wa.gov; help by phone 360‑763‑7300 (M‑F). (dor.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Re‑check eligibility and reapply for prior years to maximize refunds (up to $3,745 if eligible for 2022–2024). (dor.wa.gov)
WA ABLE Savings (for disability‑related savings without losing benefits)
- Contribution limits (2025): Standard annual contribution up to 19,000∗∗;additional∗∗ABLEtoWork∗∗contributionuptobeneficiary’searnings(max∗∗19,000**; additional **ABLE to Work** contribution up to beneficiary’s earnings (max **15,060 in 2025). Account cap 500,000∗∗.Minimum∗∗500,000**. Minimum **10 per contribution; $25 to open. (washingtonstateable.com)
- Contact: 1‑844‑600‑2253 (M–F). Learn more and open an account at Washington State ABLE. (washingtonstateable.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask ABLE customer service about rollovers from 529 college plans, payees/ALRs, and how ABLE interacts with SSI resource limits (especially the $100,000 SSI suspension threshold—SSA rules apply).
Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation: Broker phone directory (partial)
County | Broker | Phone |
---|---|---|
King | Hopelink | 1‑800‑923‑7433 (TTY 1‑800‑246‑1646) |
Snohomish | Hopelink | 1‑855‑766‑7433 |
Pierce | Paratransit Services | 1‑800‑925‑5438 |
Clark/Cowlitz | Community in Motion | 360‑694‑9997 or 1‑800‑752‑9422 |
Spokane/Stevens | Special Mobility Services | 509‑534‑9760 or 1‑800‑892‑4817 |
Full list by county is on HCA’s transportation page. Book 7–14 days ahead. (hca.wa.gov)
Child Support and Modifications (for extraordinary medical needs)
- DCS KIDS Line: 1‑800‑442‑KIDS (5437) (24/7 automated; live help weekdays). Ask about modifying orders due to your child’s extraordinary medical/therapy expenses and care needs. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Find your field office / contact DCS: See DSHS DCS contacts page (mailing address, office locator). (dshs.wa.gov)
- Alternative Solutions: If you owe support and face barriers, call 800‑604‑1146 to discuss realistic arrangements. (dshs.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Consider mediation, adjustments to medical support orders, or a Conference Board review; ask DCS about documentation needed (receipts, insurance EOBs, physician letters).
DDA, Health, and Family Supports: What these terms mean in practice
- Respite: Short‑term breaks for caregivers. Under IFS/CIIBS, respite is available within your assessed plan/budget. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- Assistive Technology & Specialized Equipment: Waivers cover eligible items (e.g., communication devices) when not fully covered by insurance. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Environmental & Vehicle Modifications: Ramps, bathroom adaptations, van lifts—within program limits shown above. (law.cornell.edu)
Real‑world examples
- Example: A single mom in Tacoma with two kids (one autistic, age 6). Household of 3; income $2,100/month from part‑time work.
- Likely Free Apple Health for both kids (free coverage up to $4,775/month for family of 3). (hca.wa.gov)
- Could get SNAP; her max possible if no net income would be $768; with earnings, SNAP is reduced but still helps. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- If DDA‑eligible, she may be offered IFS Level 1–2 (1,560–1,560–2,340/year) for respite or behavior consults. (law.cornell.edu)
- If work hours increase, apply for WCCC to lower child‑care costs; copay depends on SMI band. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- Example: A mom in Yakima caring for a child with intensive behaviors.
- Ask DDA about CIIBS; it can fund in‑home behavior supports with $15,000/year aggregate limits for certain services, plus crisis stabilization supports. (law.cornell.edu)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete medical documentation: For DDA or SSI, include full evaluations, IEPs, therapy notes, and standardized test results.
- Missing renewal or review dates: Put calendar reminders for Apple Health renewals, SNAP mid‑cert reviews, WIC appointments, and PFML weekly claims.
- Not asking for written decisions: For school or DDA, ask for written prior notice. It protects your appeal rights. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Not booking rides early: NEMT brokers often need 7–14 days; late calls may lead to missed appointments. (hca.wa.gov)
Application Checklist
- ID and residence proof: Driver’s license/ID, lease or utility bill.
- Income: Recent pay stubs, award letters (UI, child support), self‑employment logs.
- Medical & school records: Diagnostic reports, IEP/IFSP, therapy notes.
- Insurance: Current insurance cards, denial letters for items not covered.
- Banking: For direct deposit (PFML, WFTC, ABD), bring routing/account numbers.
- Contacts: Providers, case managers, teachers, school district special education office numbers.
Diverse Communities and Tailored Help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Language access and respectful care: Ask Apple Health plans for gender‑affirming, culturally competent providers; OEO and OSPI provide procedural protections against discrimination during IEP processes. Phone: OSPI 360‑725‑6075, OEO 1‑866‑297‑2597. (ospi.k12.wa.us, oeo.wa.gov)
- Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children: DDA waivers and Apple Health EPSDT can fund many in‑home supports; NEMT solves transport barriers; PFML provides income during medical leave. Key links below. (dshs.wa.gov, hca.wa.gov, paidleave.wa.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You may qualify for VA health and caregiver programs alongside Apple Health; coordinate benefits and ask your Apple Health plan for VA coordination. (Confirm eligibility with VA while using Apple Health network care.)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Apple Health for Kids covers many children regardless of immigration status; state WIC and school services do not count against “public charge.” Help Me Grow and WIC provide multilingual support. Phones: WIC 1‑800‑841‑1410, Help Me Grow 1‑800‑322‑2588. (doh.wa.gov, dcyf.wa.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Apple Health has guidance for American Indians/Alaska Natives and coordinate benefits with Tribal clinics; DDA and ESIT services are statewide with tribal partners.
- Rural single moms: Use NEMT for long‑distance specialty care; ask for mileage reimbursement or ferry tickets where applicable. (hca.wa.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs listed apply equally; DCS will work with any custodial parent; KIDS Line 1‑800‑442‑5437. (dshs.wa.gov)
- Language access: OSPI, OEO, HCA, WIC and DDA all provide interpreter services on request—mention your preferred language when you call. (ospi.k12.wa.us, oeo.wa.gov, hca.wa.gov, doh.wa.gov)
Program Tables You Can Use
Apple Health for Kids income snapshots (free coverage; examples)
Household size | Max monthly income for free coverage |
---|---|
1 | $2,804 |
2 | $3,790 |
3 | $4,775 |
4 | $5,760 |
Source: HCA Children page (updated annually in April). (hca.wa.gov)
DDA IFS annual allocations at a glance
Level | Annual cap |
---|---|
1 | $1,560 |
2 | $2,340 |
3 | $3,120 |
4 | $4,680 |
Source: WAC 388‑845‑0230 and WAC 388‑828‑9140. (law.cornell.edu, lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov)
SNAP maximum allotments (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | +person |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
$292 | $536 | $768 | $975 | $1,158 | $1,390 | $1,536 | $1,756 | +$220 |
Source: USDA FNS FY 2025. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
WCCC copay bands (examples)
SMI band | Typical copay |
---|---|
0–20% SMI | $0 |
20–36% SMI | $65 |
36–50% SMI | $90 |
50–60% SMI | $165 |
60–65% SMI | $215 |
See DCYF WCCC income/copay chart by family size; initial and exit thresholds vary by SMI. (dcyf.wa.gov)
Paid Family & Medical Leave basics
Item | 2025 amount |
---|---|
Max weekly benefit | $1,542 |
Premium rate (total) | 0.92% of wages |
Employee share | 71.52% of premium |
Employer share | 28.48% (waived for <50 employees) |
Sources: PaidLeave.wa.gov and ESD releases. (paidleave.wa.gov, esd.wa.gov)
Regional Resource Contacts (save these)
- DDA Regional Intake: See numbers in DDA section above (King County 1‑800‑974‑4428, etc.). (manuals.dshs.wa.gov)
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation: See county broker phones above (e.g., Hopelink King 1‑800‑923‑7433). (hca.wa.gov)
- OSPI Special Education: 360‑725‑6075 (TTY 360‑664‑3631); OEO 1‑866‑297‑2597. (ospi.k12.wa.us, oeo.wa.gov)
- DSHS DCS (child support): 1‑800‑442‑KIDS (5437); office locator on DCS website. (dshs.wa.gov)
What to expect for timelines
- Apple Health: If eligible, coverage begins first day of application month; card in ~2 weeks. (hca.wa.gov)
- PFML: Allow 3–4 weeks from application to first payment once weeks are claimed. (paidleave.wa.gov)
- DDA: Eligibility/enrollment times vary by region and program; ask your case manager for current queue info.
- ESIT: Referral to IFSP development is governed by federal timelines; start by calling 1‑800‑322‑2588. (dcyf.wa.gov)
10 Washington‑specific FAQs
- How do I get ABA therapy covered: Apple Health EPSDT covers medically necessary therapies for kids; ask your plan for an autism/behavioral health referral. Transportation to therapy is available via NEMT brokers. (hca.wa.gov)
- Is there respite help if I’m on a waitlist: If enrolled on IFS or CIIBS, respite is available within your budget/assessment. If not yet enrolled, ask DDA about interim supports and community resources. (manuals.dshs.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- Can WCCC help pay for a special‑needs childcare: Yes, if the provider is eligible in the WCCC system. Copays depend on your SMI band; see DCYF chart. (dcyf.wa.gov)
- How much is SNAP for a household of 4 with no income: $975/month (FY 2025). Actual benefits decrease as net income increases. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Does Washington have non‑emergency rides to medical care: Yes—book through your county NEMT broker (see list). (hca.wa.gov)
- I’m caring for my child full‑time and lost work—can I get paid leave: PFML can pay up to $1,542/week in 2025 during qualifying caregiving or medical leave. (paidleave.wa.gov)
- What cash help exists if I can’t work: ABD cash (450/450/570) while applying for SSI; TANF (706for3∗∗)ifyoumeetfamilyrules;∗∗DCA∗∗upto∗∗706 for 3**) if you meet family rules; **DCA** up to **2,000 one‑time. (dshs.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- How do I challenge a school’s refusal to evaluate: Request Procedural Safeguards, call OSPI 360‑725‑6075, consider mediation or a community complaint, and contact OEO for help. (ospi.k12.wa.us)
- Can I save money without losing SSI/Medicaid: Use a WA ABLE account; contribute up to 19,000/year∗∗(+∗∗ABLEtoWork∗∗upto∗∗19,000/year** (+ **ABLE to Work** up to **15,060 in 2025). (washingtonstateable.com)
- How much is SSI for 2025: 967/month∗∗individualFBR(∗∗967/month** individual FBR (**1,450 for an eligible couple). State supplements may apply in specific cases. (ssa.gov)
What to do when you hit roadblocks
- Ask for supervisors and case reviews if your application stalls.
- Keep everything in writing: Email confirmations, appeal forms, prior written notices.
- Use official hotlines: WithinReach (206‑204‑3503), OSPI 360‑725‑6075, OEO 1‑866‑297‑2597, HCA 1‑800‑562‑3022, DCS 1‑800‑442‑5437. (hca.wa.gov, ospi.k12.wa.us, oeo.wa.gov, hca.wa.gov, dshs.wa.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
Methodology: We used only official state and federal sources (HCA, DSHS, DCYF, OSPI, ESD, USDA, SSA) and verified contact numbers and benefit amounts as of September 2025. We provide calculator links instead of fixed dollar “promises” when program rules change during the year. See our full Editorial Standards for sourcing, verification, and update timelines.
Key sources by section:
- Apple Health for Kids (income/premiums): HCA Children page. (hca.wa.gov)
- DDA waivers (IFS/CIIBS) and limits: DSHS DDA waiver pages and WAC citations. (dshs.wa.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- SNAP maximums (FY 2025): USDA FNS (effective 10/1/2024–9/30/2025). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- PFML max benefit and 2025 premiums: PaidLeave.wa.gov and ESD news release. (paidleave.wa.gov, esd.wa.gov)
- SSI 2025 FBR: SSA COLA/SSI pages. (ssa.gov)
- WIC: WA DOH WIC contacts; USDA WIC Food Packages final rule overview. (doh.wa.gov, wicworks.fns.usda.gov)
- NEMT: HCA transportation page with county broker numbers. (hca.wa.gov)
- TANF/ABD/DCA/HEN: DSHS WACs and program pages. (law.cornell.edu, dshs.wa.gov)
- Special Education rights and dispute resolution: OSPI and OEO. (ospi.k12.wa.us, oeo.wa.gov)
Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.
Disclaimer
Important note: Program amounts, rules, and timelines change. Always confirm specifics with the relevant agency before you apply or rely on a benefit. We link directly to official sources to help you verify details fast. This guide is information, not legal advice, and cannot guarantee individual outcomes. For health and safety, use official hotlines (911/988) in emergencies. We work to keep this site secure and updated; if you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we will investigate and correct within 48 hours.
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