Children with autism may be eligible for disability through Social Security. The program for children is called Supplemental Security Income or SSI.
If the child’s autism is extreme enough to limit her in one category, or is what is termed “marked” in two categories, then the child is considered disabled. However, if the parents earn too much money the child will not be paid SSI even if disabled.
Social Security judges look at the limitations the disease or condition causes in determining disability. They do not make decisions based on diagnosis alone. For example, a child with autism may be considered not disabled, while another child with asthma may found disabled.
Please call Social Security Disability Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371 with your questions about Social Security Disability for adults and children.