Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can limit a person’s ability to maintain gainful employment and affect their daily life and relationships. For families with young children with the disorder, special care and expenses can be difficult to manage.
If you or a loved one has autism, you may wonder if disability benefits are available. Both children and adults aged 18 and older may qualify for financial support via Social Security. This page will explain how you can receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for autism and what you need to know about the application process.
What Is Autism and When Is It Diagnosed?
Autism is a developmental disability that affects how people communicate, interact, and behave. Doctors usually diagnose autism in early childhood, often before age 3. However, some people may not receive a diagnosis until later in life.
Living With Autism: Challenges and Symptoms
Living with autism can be incredibly challenging. Many people with the disorder can have trouble working or living independently. They may struggle with:
- Verbal and nonverbal communication
- Social interactions
- Executive functioning
- Sensory sensitivities
- Repetitive behaviors
Can You Get SSI for Autism?
Disability benefits are available to people with autism if they meet the strict eligibility criteria in the Blue Book. The Blue Book, or Listing of Impairments, serves as the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) reference guide for determining disability.
Autism is recognized as a qualifying condition in the Childhood and Adult Listing of Impairments. To receive SSI, an adult or child must satisfy the medical criteria under listing 12.10 or 112.10 respectively. Claimants must also meet the SSA’s general qualifying criteria.
General Qualifying Criteria for Disability Benefits
To qualify for Social Security Disability, you must:
- Have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability
- Be unable to perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) because of your disability
- Have a disability that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
SSI, SSDI, and Other Benefit Criteria
There are two main types of disability benefits:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Most adults with autism do not apply for SSDI. This is because they usually lack the necessary work history to qualify.
SSI disability benefits are for low-income individuals. This includes those who have never worked or haven’t earned enough work credits to receive SSDI.
A child can qualify for SSI if their family’s income and assets do not exceed the limits set by Social Security. When applying for SSI benefits for autism, their condition must significantly restrict their ability to engage in activities.
If you or your child has autism but do not meet Blue Book requirements, you may still qualify for benefits. This is possible if you have another impairment that restricts your work capabilities. Many applicants have multiple conditions that prevent them from working full time. People with autism often have other disorders, such as anxiety, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, or cardiovascular conditions.
People with ASD can also potentially qualify for the following Social Security benefits:
- Child Disability Benefits (CDB)
- Disabled Adult Child Benefits (DAC)
When a child is born with a disability or becomes disabled before age 18, the financial burden on their family can be significant. To support families with disabled children, the SSA provides Child Disability Benefits to those who qualify.
CDB is for children who are blind or have a disability that causes marked functional limitations. There is no age requirement for CDB. Family resources are assessed to establish eligibility.
Disabled Adult Child Benefits are available to adult children who became disabled before age 22, and whose parents qualify for Social Security benefits. A parent must be receiving Social Security retirement benefits, SSDI, or have passed away for the child to obtain DAC.
Blue Book Criteria for Autism
The medical criteria for autism in the Blue Book is the same under both the Adult and Childhood listings. To qualify for SSDI or SSI disability for autism, you must have:
- Medical documentation proving you have both of the following:
- Qualitative deficits in verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and social interaction; and
- Significantly restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.
AND
- Extreme limitation of one, or marked limitation of two, of the following areas of mental functioning:
- Understand, remember, or apply information.
- Interact with others.
- Concentrate, persist, or maintain pace.
- Adapt or manage oneself.
Qualifying Evidence
Strong evidence is crucial to the success of your claim. Supporting evidence of autism for SSI benefits or SSDI may include:
- Medical records from physicians
- Results of cognitive tests
- School records showing special education and services
- Statements from teachers, employers, or caregivers
- A detailed work history (if applicable)
How Does Autism Limit a Person’s Ability to Work?
Autism can affect a person’s ability to work in many ways. Some examples include difficulty understanding instructions or interacting with coworkers. People may also have difficulty organizing tasks, managing time effectively, or working in teams. They can also struggle to cope with workplace noise, lighting, other stimuli, or changes in routine.
These limitations can make it hard for some people with autism to find or keep a job, even with accommodations.
Why Work With Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC?
The Challenge of Proving Your Claim
Getting approved for SSI benefits for autism can be difficult. The SSA denies most initial applications, often due to incomplete information or paperwork errors. The entire claims process can be complex and overwhelming. If you have autism or care for a family member with autism, we can offer guidance on filing your claim.
How Our Law Firm Can Help
Our experienced disability lawyers at Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, understand the unique challenges of autism cases. We can help you:
- Gather crucial supportive medical evidence
- Complete your application accurately
- Meet all SSA deadlines
- Appeal a denied claim if necessary
- Represent you at hearings
Why Choose Us?
- We are highly skilled in Social Security Disability law and understand the SSA’s strict qualifying criteria and application guidelines.
- Our team has a strong track record of helping clients file for benefits successfully.
- We offer personalized attention and support throughout the entire claims process.
Don’t struggle with your SSI claim alone. Let our attorneys help you get the benefits you deserve.
Are You Ready To Start On Your SSI Claim for Autism?
Contact Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, today for a free consultation. Our experienced disability lawyers are ready to help you navigate the disability application process and fight for your rights. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start working on your claim.
