Autism Spectrum Disorder Benefits in Connecticut

To qualify for federal disability benefits with Autism Spectrum Disorder, you must have a medically documented condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or lead to death[1][4]. Adults must generally have worked five of the last 10 years for SSDI, unless under age 24[6]. For SSI, income and assets must be below certain limits[1]. In 2025, the substantial gainful activity limit is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 if blind[1][4]. Children with autism may qualify for benefits if their disability began before age 22 and their parent is receiving Social Security benefits[4].

Connecticut residents with Autism Spectrum Disorder may qualify for state programs like the State Supplement Program, which provides cash assistance to supplement income for the aged, blind, or disabled[3]. The state also offers Medicaid waivers, such as the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver, for adults with disabilities who need community-based services[3]. Family support grants are available for children with developmental disabilities, including autism, to help families cover extra costs[3]. Connecticut does not count the federal cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) as income for state cash assistance programs, which helps maintain eligibility[2]. To qualify for state programs, you must meet both federal and state financial and medical requirements[3].

1. Gather medical records and proof of income.
2. Apply for federal benefits (SSI/SSDI) online at SSA.gov or at your local Social Security office.
3. Apply for Connecticut state benefits online at connect.ct.gov or by calling 1-855-626-6632.
4. Contact CT DSS for help with forms and documentation[3][5].

1. Collect Documentation: Get medical records that show your autism diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work or function daily. Include reports from doctors, therapists, and schools.
2. Apply for Federal Benefits: Go to SSA.gov and fill out the application for SSI or SSDI. You can also apply in person at a Social Security office. Make sure to list all sources of income and assets.
3. Apply for State Benefits: Visit connect.ct.gov to apply for Connecticut state programs like the State Supplement or Medicaid waivers. You can also call 1-855-626-6632 for help.
4. Submit Medical Evidence: Send all required medical evidence to the Social Security Administration and CT DSS. This may include doctor’s notes, therapy records, and school reports.
5. Follow Up: Keep track of your application status and respond to any requests for more information. CT DSS can help with forms and documentation if needed[3][5].
6. Attend Interviews: You may need to attend interviews with Social Security or CT DSS staff. Be ready to discuss your condition and how it affects your daily life.

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Provides cash assistance to people with disabilities who have limited income and resources[1].
• SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): Provides benefits to people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes[1].
• Disabled Adult Child (DAC): Adults with autism who became disabled before age 22 may qualify for benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record[4].

• State Supplement Program: Provides cash assistance to supplement income for the aged, blind, or disabled in Connecticut[3].
• Medicaid Waivers: Programs like the Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver offer home and community-based services for adults with disabilities[3].
• Family Support Grant Program: Provides subsidies to families raising children with developmental disabilities, including autism[3].
• Personal Services Program: Offers grants for personal assistants to help people with severe disabilities live outside institutions[3].
• Legal Services for Indigent People: Provides civil legal help to low-income individuals with disabilities[3].

ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits. Connecticut residents can open an ABLE account to pay for qualified disability expenses[internal_link_ABLE_Accounts].

In 2025, the substantial gainful activity limit for SSI/SSDI is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 if blind[1][4]. Connecticut state programs have their own income limits, which may be higher or lower depending on the program[3].

If your income or living situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Report changes to Social Security and CT DSS as soon as possible[internal_link_Avoiding_Overpayments_Reporting_Changes].

• Connecticut Department of Social Services
  Phone: 1-855-626-6632

  TTY: 1-800-842-4524

  Website

  Apply for state benefits and get help with forms and documentation.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  Apply for federal disability benefits and get information on eligibility.

• Can a child with autism get disability benefits in Connecticut?

  Yes, a child with autism may qualify for SSI if their family meets income limits. If the child’s disability began before age 22, they may also get benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record[4].

• What is the income limit for disability benefits in Connecticut?

  In 2025, the limit is $1,620 per month for most people, or $2,700 if blind. Connecticut state programs have their own limits, which may be higher or lower[1][3].

• How do I apply for Medicaid waivers in Connecticut?

  Contact the CT Department of Social Services regional office and return a completed waiver request form. You must meet medical and financial requirements[3].

• Can adults with autism get benefits if they never worked?

  Yes, adults with autism who became disabled before age 22 may qualify for benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record, even if they never worked[4].

• What is the State Supplement Program in Connecticut?

  The State Supplement Program provides cash assistance to supplement income for the aged, blind, or disabled in Connecticut, helping them maintain a basic standard of living[3].

• Are there family support programs for children with autism in Connecticut?

  Yes, Connecticut offers the Family Support Grant Program, which provides subsidies to families raising children with developmental disabilities, including autism[3].