Adults with Autism
The Social Security Administration (SSA) lists adult autism in the Mental Disorders category of its Listing of Impairments, an extensive compilation of physical and mental impairments, with one list for adults and one for children. The listing information is used by the SSA in disability evaluation.
In determining adult autism, the SSA identifies autism as “qualitative deficits” in the development of:
- Reciprocal social interaction
- Verbal communication skills
- Non-verbal communication skills
- Imaginative activity
The parameters for meeting the level of severity of the disorder in determining eligibility for SSDI must be met. According to the SSA, the required level of severity for adult autism includes:
- Qualitative deficits in the person’s social interaction
- Qualitative deficits in the person’s verbal and non-verbal communication
- Qualitative deficits in imaginative activity
- A markedly restricted repertoire of interests and activities
The SSA further notes that for the purposes of determining an eligible disability, the above deficits must result in specific difficulties which markedly restrict the person’s functioning in life.
Qualifying for Los Angeles Social Security Benefits for Adult Autism
As part of the evaluation process, the SSA will evaluate the severity of the person’s symptoms. Autism is generally considered a “spectrum disorder,” with some autistic individuals functioning at a higher level than others.
According to the SSA, autism is characterized by neurodevelopment deficits such as:
- Impaired verbal and nonverbal communication skills
- Deficient reciprocal social interaction and social functioning
- Limited interests, activities, or focus
- Restricted behavior, including compulsive hand flapping, rocking, or head rolling
- Deficient personal functioning, including self-grooming, feeding, or toileting
The SSA looks closely at the person’s records and medical tests and reports in determining to what degree the autism disorder limits the person’s daily activities—including his or her ability to earn income through some form of gainful employment.
Identifying the clinical specifics of the autism disorder is a necessity in determining whether a person qualifies for Social Security benefits. It is extremely important that an adult or child with autism is paid the benefits to which he or she is entitled. Consulting with a Los Angeles Social Security attorney can be a crucial step in protecting the right to benefits.
Adults with autism may be impaired to the degree that it is not possible to work and earn a living. As the agency will make a determination regarding eligibility for benefits, there must be substantial evidence submitted to the agency to achieve a positive decision. Our firm is available to help in these cases.
It can be a difficult and emotionally challenging effort to determine whether or not you or a loved one qualifies for adult autism Social Security benefits. At the Kenton Koszdin Law Office, we offer a free consultation with a for those who are unable to come to our office location. Our Social Security case results speak for themselves. Our founding attorney is personally dedicated to helping those in need to pursue benefits they need.
Please contact us today by filling out our online form, or call us directly for help.
