Parents of children with autism have to deal with many concerns while figuring out the best way to support their child. From treatment and medical aid to everyday support, parents always look for ways to improve the quality of life of their children and make them independent. But another worry is whether you can afford the different treatment options. One way to lessen the financial burden is through monthly payments from the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.
What Is SSI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a government program that provides monthly payments to individuals with disabilities and older adults with little or no income or resources. The SSI program is available to children with disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
It’s possible to get SSI for autism if you meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) criteria for disability. These include medical and financial criteria and limitations in mental functioning.
What Qualifies an Autistic Child Qualify for SSI?
When autistic children receive SSI, they receive a monthly payment that can cover specific needs. In addition to covering basic needs, families can use SSI to cover autism-related expenses like therapy, buying communication devices and sensory tools, paying for educational programs and summer camps, and respite care.
However, autism is on a spectrum, so the degree of symptoms that the child exhibits will determine whether they can qualify for SSI or not. Children with less severe autistic symptoms might not be eligible for the SSI program because their condition does not meet the SSA criteria of disability.
For a child with autism to qualify for SSI, they must meet the conditions below:
- Deficits in both verbal and nonverbal communication.
- Limitations in social interaction and engagements.
- Extremely narrow routines, habits, or preservative interests.
Also, for an autistic child to qualify for SSI, the parents have to present medical evidence that their child has these symptoms. The child must also have a significant limitation in at least two of the areas below:
- The capacity to understand, remember, and use information.
- Cooperating with others, i.e., interactive play, conversing, navigating friendships and conflicts, and understanding social cues.
- Focus, i.e., not being distracted during activities and efficiently completing tasks.
- Adjusting to new circumstances, i.e., managing emotion, protecting oneself from danger, maintaining hygiene, and controlling behavior.
Aside from the medical conditions, parents must meet financial criteria for an SSI application.
Understanding Stimming in Autism
One of the common behaviors among autistic individuals is stimming, which refers to self-stimulatory behaviors such as hand-flapping, rocking, spinning, or repeating certain sounds. Autistic stimming can help children regulate their emotions, manage sensory input, or cope with anxiety. While these behaviors are typically harmless, they can sometimes interfere with daily activities, learning, or social interactions. Many autistic children use tools such as sensory toys, fidget devices, or even mobile phones as part of their stimming routine. Families applying for SSI benefits may use the financial assistance to purchase sensory-friendly tools, therapy sessions, or assistive technology to support their child’s self-regulation needs.
How To Apply for SSI for an Autistic Child
For children with autism to apply for SSI and qualify, the SSA will consider the income and resources of the child and family members. Families need to submit records showing that their child’s autism significantly impairs them. Records like these can be obtained from healthcare providers and schools.
They also need records of their finances to prove they need financial assistance. Financial documentation can include paycheck stubs, bank statements, benefit statements, and other documents showing the child’s and parents’ financial assets and resources.
Parents can apply for the SSI benefits on behalf of their children. To start with, you should complete the Child Disability Report from SSA, which has details on the child’s medical conditions and education. After that, you can contact the SSA to complete the administration process.
The state agency will assess whether the child is eligible for SSI by reviewing the applicant’s information. You must also prepare for a disability interview and additional evaluations if required. It can take three to five months to receive a decision from the SSA regarding your child’s application. If you are rejected, you can also appeal.
How Much Can a Child with Autism Get from SSI?
The maximum SSI benefit amount changes yearly, but in 2024, it was $943 per individual. Some children and their families generally get over $600 per month. However, the amount that a child with autism will get depends on different factors.
For one, SSA considers the child’s financial status, including the resources of parents and guardians. Having additional sources of income can reduce your monthly SSI payments. Also, the child’s state of residence will affect the amount of SSI payments received.
In different states, autistic children who receive SSI benefits are eligible for Medicaid, allowing them to obtain more affordable healthcare. If the parents are married and live with the child, their income and assets will be considered. The SSI benefit can also be reduced if the parents receive public income maintenance payments.
Parents are appointed as the payee for a child’s SSI benefit. They are in charge of managing and spending the SSI benefit for the child. Parents or guardians must use the funds to benefit the child, including their food, housing, clothing, hygiene products, and medical treatment.
Getting the Best Benefits for Your Child
With the SSI program, parents can offer more benefits to their autistic child. It’s best to start the process for SSI as soon as possible since it can take several months. With the required medical and financial qualifications, your child can receive SSI benefits every month for therapy and education.