People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Illinois can access federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special programs for workers with disabilities. These programs help cover healthcare, income, and support services.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, a person must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability. For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, this means the condition causes marked and severe functional limitations. The child must not be working or earning more than $1,620 per month in 2025 (or $2,700 if blind). For adults, the condition must prevent them from doing substantial work and must last at least 12 months or result in death. Social Security does not pay for partial or short-term disabilities. Income and resources are also considered for SSI eligibility. [^1][^2][^3]
In Illinois, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder can qualify for Medicaid and the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities (HBWD) program. HBWD is for workers aged 16-64 with disabilities. For 2025, a single person can have up to $4,393 per month in countable income, and a couple can have up to $5,962 per month. HBWD allows up to $25,000 in assets, which is higher than most Medicaid programs. Illinois also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, which can provide extra support for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. [^4][^5]
An ABLE account lets people with Autism Spectrum Disorder save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Illinois offers IL ABLE accounts. You can save up to $17,000 per year in 2025, and the total balance can be up to $500,000. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses. [^6]
It is important to report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security and the Illinois Department of Human Services as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and correspondence.
Contact your local DHS Family Community Resource Center or call the Illinois Department of Human Services Help Line at 1-800-843-6154 for help with applications and questions.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs provide monthly payments for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder who meet the medical requirements.
Yes, a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder can get SSI if their condition causes marked and severe functional limitations and they meet the income and resource limits. The child must not be working or earning more than $1,620 per month in 2025.
HBWD is a Medicaid program in Illinois for workers with disabilities aged 16-64. It allows higher income and asset limits than regular Medicaid and helps people keep healthcare coverage while working.
You can apply for Medicaid waivers through the Illinois Department of Human Services. Contact your local DHS Family Community Resource Center for help with the application process and to learn about available waivers.
An ABLE account lets people with Autism Spectrum Disorder save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for benefits. Illinois offers IL ABLE accounts, which can be used for education, housing, transportation, and other qualified expenses.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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You must report any changes in income to Social Security and the Illinois Department of Human Services. Changes in income can affect your benefits, and failing to report can result in overpayments.
Yes, adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder can get SSDI if they have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and their condition meets the medical requirements for disability.
Work incentives allow people with disabilities to earn income without losing benefits. Programs like HBWD and SSDI work incentives help people with Autism Spectrum Disorder work and keep their healthcare and income support.
You can get help from local agencies like the Illinois Department of Human Services, Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Programs, and local DHS Family Community Resource Centers. They can help you with applications and answer questions.
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder can get services through Early Intervention, SSI, Medicaid, and Medicaid waivers. These programs provide therapy, healthcare, and support for families.
