4 Benefits Available to Those with ASD in Florida: A Guide

There are many different types of benefits available to those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and it can be difficult to know where to start. This guide will outline some of the most common types of benefits available:

1. The Social Security Administration 

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a specific listing for autism spectrum disorders, which can be found under the heading of “mental disorders.” In order to meet the listing, an individual must have documentation from a licensed medical professional diagnosing the individual with ASD. 

The SSA will also consider an individual’s functional limitations to make a determination of disability.

The SSA offers two programs that may provide financial assistance to individuals with ASD: the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.

The SSDI program

The SSDI program is a federally run program that provides benefits to individuals who have worked in the past but are now unable to work due to a disabling condition. 

To qualify for SSDI benefits, individuals must have worked for a certain number of years (depending on their age) and paid Social Security taxes. In addition, individuals must have a disabling condition that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.

The SSI Program

The SSI program is a needs-based program that provides benefits to low-income individuals who are disabled, blind, or 65 years of age or older. Individuals must have a limited income and few assets to qualify for SSI benefits.

Individuals with ASD may qualify for benefits under either the SSDI or SSI program. To qualify for benefits under the SSDI program, individuals must have a disabling condition that prevents them from working. Individuals must have a limited income and few assets to qualify for benefits under the SSI program.

The CAL Initiative

The SSA has a special program called the Compassionate Allowances (CAL) Initiative that fast-tracks the approval of disability benefits for individuals with certain conditions, including ASD. 

The CAL Initiative is designed to quickly identify claimants who are clearly disabled and need the benefits and to provide them with benefits as quickly as possible.

2. Medicaid

Medicaid is a government-funded health insurance program available to low-income individuals and families. Individuals with ASD may be eligible for Medicaid if they meet the income requirements. Medicaid can help with the costs of treatments, therapies, and other services necessary for individuals with ASD.

3. Florida Autism Waiver

The Florida Autism Waiver is a program that provides funding for services necessary for individuals with ASD. The services covered by the waiver include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. The Florida Autism Waiver can help with the costs of these services.

4. Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

CHIP is a government-funded health insurance program that is available to low-income children. Individuals with ASD may be eligible for CHIP if they meet the income requirements. CHIP can help with the costs of treatments, therapies, and other services necessary for individuals with ASD.

Conclusion

There are a number of benefits available to those with ASD in Florida that can help individuals with ASD to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. These include SSA benefits, Medicaid, Florida Autism Waiver, and CHIP. Each of these benefits can make a big difference in the lives of individuals with ASD and their families.

To see if you or your loved one is eligible for social security benefits, we encourage you to get in touch with us today. Avard Law is a social security disability law firm in Florida that can help determine if you qualify for benefits and, if so, help you file your claim. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.