The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application process is complex, especially when it comes to applying for mental conditions like autism. But can a person with autism qualify for SSDI?
It is possible to qualify for SSDI benefits with autism since the Social Security Administration lists autism as a qualifying disability in their Listing of Impairments. If your condition fails to match a listing, you may also qualify through a medical-vocational allowance.
Read below for more information on whether autism qualifies for disability benefits.
What Is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder, also known as ASD, is a complex developmental condition that usually presents in the early years of childhood. Its prevalence in men is four times higher than in women.
The symptoms of autism can vary from person to person and from condition to condition. A person with this disorder may have trouble communicating and interacting with others, as well as exhibit unusual patterns of behavior such as fixating and repetition or being hypersensitive to certain sights, sounds, textures, or odors.
The symptoms of autism can range from mild to severe, and no two people with the disorder are the same.
Among the conditions that are included on the autism spectrum are autism, Asperger Syndrome (AS), and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS).
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for ASD. However, studies have shown that early detection and management can significantly improve symptoms and skills in the long run. Autism spectrum disorder can be diagnosed in children as young as two years old.
Is ASD a Disability?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides protection for those with neurological developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder. ASD is caused by differences in the brain and can have a wide variety of effects on an individual.
Individuals with ASD who are unable to work due to their condition and who meet all other qualifying standards set by the Social Security Administration (SSA) may be eligible for disability benefits.
How the SSA Views ASD
The SSA classifies autism as a mental disorder. Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are defined as having significant challenges with social interaction and verbal and nonverbal communication.
Furthermore, they could exhibit very limited and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or hobbies. The SSA adds that people on the autistic spectrum may have difficulty in areas such as understanding, remembering particular information, communicating, or concentrating.
Those who have autism may also struggle with behavioral issues, which can include impulsivity, hyperactivity, and reduced attention spans.
While some legal systems classify autism as an intellectual or learning disability, the SSA does not utilize these categories and instead uses its own criteria to determine eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and SSDI benefits.
Autism Conditions
Conditions that were traditionally considered separate are also included in autism spectrum disorder.
The autism spectrum includes conditions such as Asperger syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder, and childhood disintegrative disorder.
Qualifying through a Blue Book Listing
The Listing of Impairments maintained by the SSA includes classifications of medical illnesses as well as precise standards that must be satisfied before an applicant can be considered disabled.
When it comes to autism spectrum disorders, the criteria for both the adult and childhood listings are identical. Both listings require medical documentation demonstrating each of the following:
- deficits in social interaction,
- deficits in speech and nonverbal communication,
- highly restricted and repetitive interests, behaviors, and activities.
Social Security will also consider the extent to which the applicant’s autism interferes with their academic or occupational performance.
Applicants are required to demonstrate a “marked” (severe) limitation in at least two areas or an extreme limitation in one area:
- Understanding, remembering, and applying information (the ability to acquire, retain, and apply knowledge, comprehend and implement instructions, resolve problems, or make rational decisions),
- interacting with others (including but not limited to forming and maintaining friendships and professional connections, resolving problems, initiating and continuing conversations, and understanding social cues),
- being able to adapt or manage oneself (controlling one’s emotions, behavior, protection from harm, and personal hygiene), and
- focusing on activities (consistently doing tasks, avoiding distractions, and completing tasks in a timely manner).
Qualifying through a Medical Vocational Allowance
The SSA will evaluate your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC), which is an evaluation of your remaining ability to do things, such as work, after taking into account all of the limitations your medical condition impacts you. If your condition does not match the disability listing for autism disorders, your RFC is used to consider the most you can do in a work environment despite the limitations caused by your disability.
The SSA will take into consideration a variety of skills, such as the ability to sit, stand, and walk, your ability to collaborate with others, and your capacity to concentrate on specific tasks and follow instructions.
To be considered disabled, you must be unable to carry out any of the tasks mentioned in your RFC.
If your autism is severe, then it is highly likely that you might experience difficulty interacting with the general public, coworkers, as well as with supervisors.
These limitations ought to be included in your RFC. This would result in a reduction in the number of jobs that you could do. Your autism may also make it hard for you to concentrate for long periods of time at work.
The Social Security Administration may classify you as disabled if you are unable to work at a competitive pace since you will be unable to perform nearly all occupations.
How to Apply for Disability with Autism
If you are an adult applying for SSDI, you have the option of submitting your claim entirely online through the Social Security website.
Applying online is often the quickest way to apply for benefits, but you can also complete the application by visiting the local SSA office near you and filling out a form. Get in touch with an SSDI advocate or lawyer if you need assistance with your application.
Conclusion
So, if you are unable to work due to autism, you may be eligible for disability benefits. The SSA classifies autism as a mental disorder, and it qualifies as a medical condition for disability benefits if it meets specific requirements set by the SSA.
