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Maryland • Neurological/Developmental
People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Maryland can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and special programs for workers. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and medical documentation. Maryland also offers unique supports like the EID Program for employed individuals.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medical condition that meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. For SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Autism Spectrum Disorder is recognized as a qualifying disability if it meets the criteria for severity and duration. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may also qualify for benefits if their condition meets the requirements. You can learn more about federal eligibility at the SSA website [citation 6].
Federal rules apply to all states, but some details may vary by state [citation 6].
In Maryland, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder may qualify for state programs like the Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP) and the Employed Individuals with Disabilities (EID) Program. TDAP provides cash benefits to low-income, disabled individuals without dependent children for up to 12 months out of 36 months. You must verify your disability with a medical report and apply through your local Department of Social Services. The EID Program provides Medicaid to people with disabilities who work for pay, with no income limit and special savings accounts. Maryland also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. State programs may have additional requirements and documentation [citation 1, 2, 3, 5].
State rules may change, so check with local agencies for the latest information [citation 1, 2, 3, 5].
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In Maryland, you can open an ABLE account through the Maryland ABLE Program. ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses, including education, housing, transportation, and personal support services. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one at the Maryland ABLE Program website [internal_link: /guides/able-accounts].
Federal SSI has strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the monthly income limit for SSI is $943 for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Maryland state programs like TDAP and EID may have different income and resource limits. Check with your local Department of Social Services for the latest information [citation 5].
You must report changes in income, resources, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in penalties or loss of benefits. Report changes to the Social Security Administration and your local Department of Social Services as soon as possible. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes at the Social Security Administration website and your local Department of Social Services [internal_link: /guides/overpayments-and-reporting].
Contact your local Department of Social Services or a benefits counselor for help with the application process. They can answer questions and help you gather the right documents.
If you want to work, there are special rules that let you keep your benefits while you try employment. Ask about work incentives when you apply.
Yes, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may qualify for SSI if their condition meets the criteria for severity and duration. Children may also qualify for benefits as a dependent on a parent’s Social Security record. Contact the Social Security Administration for more information [citation 6].
SSI is for people with low income and few assets, including children with disabilities. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs recognize Autism Spectrum Disorder as a qualifying disability if it meets the criteria for severity and duration [citation 6].
Gather medical records and proof of income, then apply for SSI/SSDI through the Social Security Administration. For state programs, apply at your local Department of Social Services or online at MarylandBenefits.gov. For Medicaid, apply through Maryland Health Connection or your local Department of Social Services [citation 1, 2, 3, 5, 6].
Maryland offers TDAP for cash assistance, EID for Medicaid for employed individuals, and Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services. You can also apply for Medicaid through Maryland Health Connection or your local Department of Social Services [citation 1, 2, 3, 5].
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to work and keep your benefits. The EID Program provides Medicaid to people with disabilities who work for pay. SSI and SSDI also have work incentives that help you keep benefits while working [citation 2, 4, 6].
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.
You need medical records that document Autism Spectrum Disorder, including diagnosis, treatment, and functional limitations. For state programs, you may need a medical report from a licensed practitioner [citation 1, 3, 5].
The application process can take several months. SSI and SSDI applications are reviewed by the Social Security Administration. State programs like TDAP may have shorter processing times. Keep copies of all documents and follow up regularly [citation 5].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. The Social Security Administration and your local Department of Social Services will provide information on how to appeal. You may also seek help from a benefits counselor or legal aid organization [citation 4].
Yes, Medicaid provides health coverage and supports for people with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can apply through Maryland Health Connection or your local Department of Social Services. The EID Program provides Medicaid to employed individuals with disabilities [citation 2, 5].
Yes, ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. In Maryland, you can open an ABLE account through the Maryland ABLE Program. ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses [internal_link: /guides/able-accounts].
