Blog

Are People with Autism Covered Under Social Security Disability?

It is now estimated that 1 in 33 people born in 2025 will have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This is a national average based on all states combined. There are areas of the country where the diagnosis is more common. For instance, in Maryland that number is 1 in 44 but in California the diagnosis is dramatically more common at 1 in 23.

Most people with autism can live full and productive lives while others may find it difficult to find work and maintain employment. That is why autism is listed on in the ADA (American’s With Disability Act).

The government program which this is covered under is SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance). Adult disabled workers who fulfill the medical and technical eligibility requirements are typically eligible for this program.

A person is also covered under Security Income Supplement (SSI). SSI provides low-income disabled people with assistance. To assist in covering the cost of the extra resources their autistic child requires, families can apply for SSI. Remember that the family’s income cannot exceed the SSI limit and will be taken into account. Adults with autism who are over the age of 18 may also be eligible for SSI benefits.

Prior work experience has no bearing on a person’s qualifications. Instead, it is dependent on the resources and income of the household. SSI recipients may also be eligible for Medicaid and other health benefits. Different states have different monthly SSI benefit amounts, and some states increase the amount for children with autism.

In order to be eligible for SSD or SSI benefits, you need to:

• Possess a health issue that qualifies as a disability under Social Security
• Have held Social Security-covered jobs (for SSDI)
• Have low income (for SSI)
• Give medical records attesting to your diagnosis

In the case of a person who is of adult age who has never been able to gain employment, the process to apply is very much the same as someone who has worked in the past.

Applying for disability benefits can be done online at the SSDI benefits portal on SSA.gov. For SSI benefits, call 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778). You can also visit the Social Security field office in your area..

Contacting an attorney who specializes in disability law can greatly increase your chances of being improved. These attorneys give their clients the knowledge and assistance they need to confidently handle the intricate legal procedures.

Important considerations when hiring a disability attorney:

Increased approval rates: Research indicates that people who file disability claims with the assistance of a disability lawyer have a significantly higher success rate than those who do so alone.

Expertise: Disability law is complex, and a lawyer is aware of the particular requirements, such as work history and medical records, to be eligible for benefits.

Strategic case building: They are able to compile all pertinent medical records, spot possible problems, and make the strongest possible argument to the Social Security Administration.

Hearing representation: Should your initial claim be rejected, a lawyer can effectively argue your case against the administrative law judge at a hearing.