There is no question that more individuals are being properly diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders here in Texas as well as throughout the rest of the United States. While some individuals who suffer from these disabilities are able to function in society and hold down the jobs that help them pay their bills and care for themselves, others are incapable of performing these necessary actions for self-sufficiency. As such, the Social Security Administration recognizes autism spectrum disorders in its list of disabilities that may permit individuals to obtain disability benefits.
In order to qualify for disability benefits based on an autism spectrum disorder, a person must meet a variety of elements. First, the applicant must be able to provide medical evidence of their condition. That evidence must support claims that the applicant suffers from deficits in their ability to communicate and that their interests and activities are limited by their condition.
Second, an applicant must also show that they are extremely limited in one of the following categories: understanding, remembering and applying information; interacting with others; concentrating; or adapting themselves or managing themselves. Marked limitations in any two of these categories may also help qualify an applicant for disability benefits.
Autism spectrum disorders can be incredibly limiting mental conditions that prevent individuals from finding and keeping employment. Individuals who meet the criteria mentioned in this post may be able to pursue disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. However, readers are reminded that this post is offered only as information and should not be read as providing legal guidance.