If you live in Nevada and have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), you may be eligible for several federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and more. This guide explains the key programs, how to apply, and what makes Nevada’s offerings unique for those with ASD.
To qualify for SSI or SSDI with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Nevada, your condition must meet the federal definition of disability: it must significantly limit your ability to work and last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months[1][9]. For SSDI, you must have earned enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes[1]. For SSI, which also supports children, you must have low income and limited resources—generally, less than $2,000 in assets for an individual or $3,000 for a couple[1][2]. Monthly benefits are adjusted for cost of living and increase every year[4]. All programs are federal, but you apply through your local Social Security office and may be automatically screened for Medicaid[3].
Nevada does not have its own disability income program, but it does provide a small state supplement to the federal SSI payment for older adults, people who are blind, and certain institutionalized individuals—not generally for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities except in special cases (for example, living in a facility where Medicaid pays most of the cost)[3]. Nevada’s Medicaid program may offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with developmental disabilities, which can help cover services not available under regular Medicaid. If you receive SSI, you qualify for Medicaid in Nevada, but must also apply separately with your county health and human services office[3][8]. Nevada does not offer a separate state program for ASD—federal benefits are your primary option[1][3].
Start your application as early as possible. For SSI or SSDI, gather medical records, school records (for children), work history, and financial documents. Apply online at ssa.gov, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or visit your local Social Security office. If you also need Medicaid, apply through your Nevada county health and human services office—since approval for SSI usually means you qualify for Medicaid, but the state requires a separate application[3][7].
Step 1: Gather Documentation—Collect medical records, school and psychological evaluations, and proof of income and assets. For children, include Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and letters from teachers or therapists. Step 2: Start Your Application—Apply online for SSI or SSDI at ssa.gov, or visit your local Social Security office. For SSI, you can also apply in person at your county health and human services office[3][7]. Step 3: Complete the Application—Fill out all required forms. For SSI, your application may be screened for presumptive disability if your ASD is severe and meets certain criteria[2]. Step 4: Follow Up—Social Security may require a consultative exam. Respond quickly to any requests for more information. Step 5: Apply for Medicaid—Even if you qualify for SSI, apply for Medicaid separately through your local county office in Nevada[3]. Step 6: Check for Additional Assistance—Ask your county about SNAP, home-delivered meals, and other supports[3].
SSI (Supplemental Security Income): Provides monthly payments to adults and children with ASD and very limited income and resources. SSI is available regardless of work history and often includes automatic Medicaid eligibility[1][3][5]. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance): For adults who have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes and can no longer work due to ASD. Benefit amounts depend on past earnings[1][5]. Medicaid: Covers medical expenses for SSI recipients, including autism therapies and doctor visits. Apply for Medicaid through your Nevada county health and human services office[3][8]. VA Disability: Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for additional benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs[5].
Nevada does not have a standalone state disability income program for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The main state contribution is a supplement to SSI for the elderly, blind, and certain institutionalized individuals—most people with ASD will not qualify for this supplement[3]. However, the state’s Medicaid program may offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers for people with developmental disabilities, including ASD. These waivers can provide extra supports like respite care, personal care, and therapies not covered by standard Medicaid. To access these, contact your county health and human services office and ask about the “HCBS waivers” for developmental disabilities[8]. If you or your family member receives SSI or Medicaid, you may also be eligible for additional county-level services such as counseling, employment resources, transportation, and supportive housing—ask your local county office for more information[3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, save money without losing federal benefits like SSI. These accounts can help with education, housing, transportation, and health care expenses. You can open an ABLE account if your disability began before age 26. For more, see our guide on ABLE accounts.
For SSI in Nevada, you must have less than $2,000 in assets (or $3,000 for a couple) and very limited income. SSDI does not have strict income or asset limits, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit—for 2025, this is expected to be slightly higher than $1,470/month for non-blind individuals[2][4]. Income from work can affect your SSI or SSDI benefits, but work incentives and plans like Ticket to Work can help you keep benefits while trying to work. See our <a href='/guides/work-incentives'>SSI & SSDI Work Incentives</a> guide for details.
If you get more money than you are supposed to from SSI or SSDI, you may have to pay it back. Report any changes in income, living situation, or resources right away to avoid overpayments. For help, see our <a href='/guides/overpayments-and-reporting'>Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes</a> guide.
If your Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is very severe, you may qualify for expedited SSI payments while your full application is being reviewed. This is called presumptive disability. Ask your Social Security representative if you might qualify for this faster help[2].
Nevada’s Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers can provide extra support—like respite care, therapies, and personal care—for people with developmental disabilities, including ASD. Ask your county health and human services office if you’re eligible for these waivers.
Nevada’s county health and human services offices offer extras like counseling, transportation, and employment help for people with disabilities. Contact your local office to see what’s available in your area[3].
Yes, children with ASD may qualify for SSI if their condition severely limits daily activities and their family meets the income and asset limits. Medical and school records are important for the application[1][3][5].
No, Nevada does not offer a state disability payment for most adults with ASD. The main options are federal SSI and SSDI. A small state supplement is available for some elderly or blind individuals, but not most adults with developmental disabilities[3].
SSI is a needs-based program for those with low income and limited resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, based on work credits. Both require that ASD severely limits your ability to work[1][5]. See our <a href='/guides/ssi-ssdi'>SSI vs SSDI</a> guide.
No, ABLE accounts let you save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses. Learn more in our <a href='/guides/able-accounts'>ABLE Accounts</a> guide.
If you qualify for SSI, you usually qualify for Medicaid, but you must apply separately in Nevada. Medicaid covers therapies, doctor visits, and may offer additional supports through HCBS waivers[3][8].
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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Nevada counties offer services like counseling, employment help, transportation, and more for people with disabilities. Contact your local county health and human services office for details[3].
Federal SSI payments for 2025 are up to $967/month for individuals and $1,450/month for couples. Nevada adds a small state supplement only for certain groups, not most adults with ASD[2][3].
Submit medical records, school reports, and psychological evaluations that show how ASD affects your ability to work or, for children, function in daily life. A detailed diagnosis and evidence of ongoing limitations are key[1][9].
Yes, but income limits apply. SSI is reduced as your earnings go up. SSDI has a higher limit (SGA), which is adjusted yearly. Work incentives may help—see our <a href='/guides/work-incentives'>SSI & SSDI Work Incentives</a> guide.
Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. For Medicaid and other state services, contact your Nevada county health and human services office[3][7].
