People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Tennessee may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs such as Medicaid waivers and Family Support. Eligibility depends on income, work history, and medical documentation. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Tennessee, you must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) criteria. Autism Spectrum Disorder is listed as a qualifying condition if it severely limits your ability to work or function independently. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and few resources. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a qualifying work history and enough work credits. Both programs require that your disability is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The SSA reviews medical records, school reports, and other evidence to determine eligibility [1].
In Tennessee, individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder may also qualify for state programs. The Family Support Program helps families with children or adults with severe disabilities by providing respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other supports. The Katie Beckett program is for children under 18 with complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare due to parental income. Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices is a Medicaid waiver program for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Autism, that helps with employment and community living. Eligibility for these programs depends on income, disability severity, and other factors. State programs often require separate applications and may have waiting lists [3].
ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits. In Tennessee, ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation. Contributions are limited, and there are annual and lifetime caps. For more information, see the Tennessee ABLE account program [6].
It is important to report any changes in income, work, or medical status to the SSA and state agencies to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and loss of benefits. For more information on reporting changes and avoiding overpayments, see the SSA guide [7].
Contact your local Family Support Council or the Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities for help with applications and program information.
Yes, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may qualify for SSI if their family's income and resources are below the limit. The SSA reviews medical records and school reports to determine eligibility. For more information, see the SSA guide for children with disabilities [6].
SSI is for those with low income and limited resources, while SSDI is for those with a qualifying work history. Both programs require proof of disability and ongoing medical documentation. For more information, see the SSI vs SSDI guide [2].
To apply for Medicaid waivers, contact the Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities or your local Family Support Council. You may need to apply through TennCare and provide medical and financial information. For more information, see the Medicaid Waivers guide [4].
The Family Support Program is a state-funded program for families with children or adults with severe disabilities. It provides respite care, home modifications, equipment, and other supports. The current benefit limit is $6,000 per individual per year [3].
The Katie Beckett program is for children under 18 with complex medical needs who do not qualify for TennCare due to parental income. It provides services and helps pay for medical care not covered by private insurance [4].
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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Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to test your ability to work without immediately losing benefits. For SSI, you must not earn more than the SGA threshold, which is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025. For more information, see the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide [1].
You must report any changes in income, work, or medical status to the SSA and state agencies to avoid overpayments. For more information, see the Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes guide [7].
An ABLE account allows individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI and other benefits. In Tennessee, ABLE accounts can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, and transportation. For more information, see the ABLE Accounts guide [6].
Yes, Tennessee offers programs such as the Family Support Program and Employment and Community First (ECF) Choices for adults with Autism. These programs provide support for employment, community living, and other needs. For more information, see the state programs guide [3].
The SSA may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your condition meets the criteria for disability. For some medical conditions, immediate payments may be made for up to 6 months while the decision is pending. For more information, see the SSA guide for children with disabilities [6].
