Social Security Disability for Autism in Wisconsin

Can You Get Disability Benefits for Autism?

Yes. Autism spectrum disorder is included in Social Security’s listing of impairments that qualify for disability benefits. The list provides guidelines on how to apply for disability benefits with autism.

But winning benefits isn’t guaranteed. Social Security looks for proof of how autism affects core functions like:

• Communicating effectively
• Managing social interactions
• Adapting to changes
• Focusing or completing tasks
• Controlling behavior

People with autism who have worked and paid a qualifying amount into the Social Security system may be eligible for a type of benefit called Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

People who haven’t been able to work much, and have strictly limited financial resources, could get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

Another way people with autism can get disability benefits under SSDI is if their parents worked and paid a certain amount into the system, and the person needing disability benefits had a work-limiting condition from a young age.

These are called disabled adult child benefits. Because autism is a condition that starts in childhood, you or someone you know may qualify for these benefits as an adult with autism who was never able to work much and pay into the system on their own.

To understand your options, talk to the Wisconsin disability attorney team at Geary Disability Law for an evaluation of your claim at no charge.

Get a free disability claim consultation for autism.

What You Need to Prove Your Autism Disability Claim in Wisconsin

To qualify for disability benefits, you’ll need strong, consistent documentation that shows how autism interferes with your ability to work full-time.

This may include:

• Medical records confirming your autism diagnosis
• Evaluations from psychologists, psychiatrists or neurologists
• Descriptions of daily challenges: sensory issues, social limitations, difficulty with change, or a high need for structure
• Statements from caregivers, family, teachers, or former employers who’ve seen your symptoms in real life
• Records of speech therapy, behavioral therapy, counseling, or other treatment

The SSA wants confirmation that your work-stopping symptoms are permanent—and that you’ve tried therapy options or accommodations at work but still couldn’t hold a job.

Because autism varies so widely among different people, this kind of case demands a detailed approach tailored to you. That’s what we do at Geary Disability Law.

• We help you file your application, appeal a denial, meet deadlines, and fill in gaps in your medical records.
• We represent you at your disability hearing with a Social Security judge, telling your story clearly and completely.
• We stay by your side throughout the process, guiding you through every form, question, and update from Social Security.
• You’ll always have the chance to meet your lawyer in person to prepare for your hearing with a disability judge.
• We’ll keep you updated and informed on your claim, so you’re not left alone to struggle with getting responses from the big, complicated Social Security bureaucracy.

At Geary Disability Law, we fight for the benefits you deserve because we want to see our Wisconsin neighbors like you living lives of greater peace, stability and independence.

If you work with us on your disability claim for autism, you’ll pay no attorney fees until you win benefits.

Contact us today.