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Idaho • Neurological/Developmental
People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Idaho can access federal and state benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and functional criteria. This guide explains how to apply, what benefits are available, and how to manage your benefits.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with Autism Spectrum Disorder, you must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of disability. This means your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For adults, you must also meet work and earnings requirements for SSDI, or income and resource limits for SSI. Children with autism may qualify for SSI if their family meets financial criteria and their condition meets SSA’s childhood disability standards. The SSA reviews medical records, school reports, and functional assessments to determine eligibility.
Adults with a disability that began before age 22 may qualify for Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits based on a parent’s Social Security record, even if they never worked. These benefits stop if the person earns above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,620 per month in 2025 (or $2,700 if blind) 5.
In Idaho, adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder may qualify for Medicaid services if they meet both financial eligibility and the ICF/IID (Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities) level of care. This means the disability must be chronic, appear before age 22, and substantially limit at least three major life activities such as self-care, communication, learning, mobility, or independent living. Autism is specifically listed as a qualifying condition. Medicaid provides services like case management, therapy, respite care, and supported living.
Children with autism may qualify for Medicaid through the Children’s Medical Services program or Idaho’s Medicaid waiver programs. Families must apply for Medicaid first, then complete a separate assessment for developmental disability services. Idaho also offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities to save for qualified expenses without losing benefits.
Gather Documentation
Apply for SSDI or SSI
Apply for Medicaid
Apply for Medicaid Waivers (if needed)
Open an ABLE Account
Report Changes
These programs help cover medical care, living expenses, and support services for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
These programs help people with Autism Spectrum Disorder live independently, access medical care, and participate in the community.
ABLE accounts allow people with Autism Spectrum Disorder to save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Idaho residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Funds in an ABLE account can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year, and account balances do not count toward SSI or Medicaid resource limits.
It is important to report any changes in income, living situation, or health to the SSA and Idaho Health and Welfare to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. Report changes promptly and keep records of all correspondence. The SSA and Idaho Health and Welfare provide resources to help you understand reporting requirements and avoid overpayments.
Contact Idaho Health and Welfare or your local Social Security office for help with applications and eligibility questions. They can guide you through the process and answer your questions.
The Social Security Administration defines disability as a condition that prevents you from doing substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For autism, this means significant functional limitations in areas like communication, social interaction, and daily living.
Yes, children with autism may qualify for SSI if their family meets financial criteria and their condition meets SSA’s childhood disability standards. They may also qualify for Medicaid through Idaho’s Children’s Medical Services program.
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2025 is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 per month for blind individuals. Earning above this limit may affect your SSDI or SSI benefits.
You can apply for Medicaid in Idaho online, by mail, or in person through Idaho Health and Welfare. You must meet financial eligibility and may need to complete a separate assessment for developmental disability services.
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Idaho residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Follow Up
Idaho Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services for people with developmental disabilities, including autism. Services may include home care, supported employment, respite care, and community integration.
Yes, you can work while receiving SSDI or SSI, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit. The SSA offers work incentives to help you maintain benefits while working.
The ICF/IID level of care means the disability is chronic, appeared before age 22, and substantially limits at least three major life activities. This is required for Medicaid developmental disability services in Idaho.
Report changes in income, living situation, or health to the SSA and Idaho Health and Welfare promptly. Keep records of all correspondence and respond to requests for information to avoid overpayments.
SSDI is for people with a qualifying work history who are disabled. SSI is for people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Both provide monthly payments and medical benefits.
