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Delaware • Neurological/Developmental
People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Delaware can get help through Medicaid, SSI, and special programs. These benefits cover health care, therapy, and support services. Eligibility depends on income, disability status, and other factors. This guide explains how to apply and what help is available.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a qualifying disability for federal programs like Medicaid and SSI. To qualify for SSI, you must have a disability that limits your ability to work and meet income and resource limits. Medicaid covers medical services for people with disabilities, including ASD. Children with ASD may qualify for Medicaid through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or Medicaid waivers. Adults with ASD can qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and disability requirements. SSI and Medicaid can be linked, so qualifying for one may help you get the other.
People with ASD may also qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if they have a work history. ssa.gov
In Delaware, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder can get Medicaid through the state’s Medicaid program or through Medicaid waivers. The Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) manages waivers for people with developmental disabilities, including ASD. To qualify for Medicaid, you must meet income and disability requirements. Children with ASD may qualify for Medicaid through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or Medicaid waivers. Adults with ASD can qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and disability requirements.
Delaware also offers SSI, which provides cash and Medicaid to those with low income and limited resources. The state has work incentives and ABLE accounts to help people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. delaware.gov
State-specific information is limited; start here: Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services, Delaware Medicaid
Step 1: Gather medical records that show your Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis and how it affects your daily life.
Step 2: Collect proof of income, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements.
Step 3: Apply for Medicaid or SSI online at Delaware ASSIST or by phone at 1-866-852-2227.
Step 4: If applying for Medicaid waivers, contact the Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services at 1-800-964-4636.
Step 5: Attend any required interviews or medical evaluations.
Step 6: If approved, you will receive Medicaid and SSI benefits. For Medicaid waivers, you may need to wait for services to start.
Step 7: Report any changes in income, resources, or disability status to avoid overpayments.
Medicaid Application: Delaware ASSIST
Medicaid Waivers: Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services
SSI Application: Social Security Administration
ABLE Account Application: Delaware ABLE
State-specific information is limited; start here: Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services, Delaware Medicaid
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. In Delaware, you can open an ABLE account through the Delaware ABLE program. You can save up to $16,000 per year, and the account can be used for disability-related expenses. delawareable.com
For SSI, the income limit is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple in 2024. For Medicaid, the income limit is 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, which is $1,677 per month for an individual and $2,265 for a couple in 2024. ssa.gov, medicaid.gov
If your income or resources change, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you get more benefits than you are entitled to. Report changes to the Social Security Administration or Delaware Medicaid. ssa.gov, dhss.delaware.gov
Contact the Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services at 1-800-964-4636 for help with Medicaid waivers and other services.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disability that affects communication and behavior. People with ASD may have trouble with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and sensory issues. It is a qualifying disability for Medicaid and SSI.
You can apply for Medicaid in Delaware online at Delaware ASSIST, by phone at 1-866-852-2227, or in person at a local office. You will need to provide proof of income and disability.
A Medicaid waiver is a program that lets people with disabilities get services in their homes or communities instead of in institutions. In Delaware, waivers are managed by the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services.
Yes, you can work and still get Medicaid if your income is below the limit. Medicaid has work incentives that let you keep benefits while earning income.
An ABLE account is a savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money without losing benefits. In Delaware, you can open an ABLE account through the Delaware ABLE program.
You can apply for SSI online at the Social Security Administration website, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local office. You will need to provide proof of income and disability.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always check with official sources for the most up-to-date information.
Medicaid covers medical services for people with ASD, including doctor visits, therapy, and prescription medications. Medicaid waivers may cover home and community-based services.
The income limit for SSI is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple in 2024. This limit may change each year.
Yes, children with ASD can get Medicaid through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or Medicaid waivers. They must meet income and disability requirements.
SSI is for people with low income and limited resources, while SSDI is for people with a work history and disability. Both can provide cash and Medicaid benefits.
