People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Utah can get federal and state benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and work history factors. This guide explains how to apply and what to expect.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, this means the condition must be severe enough to stop you from working full time. You generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began [^1].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people with limited income and resources, including those with autism who have not worked enough for SSDI. SSI is based on financial need and disability status. Social Security uses a strict definition of disability for both programs [^1].
In Utah, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and disability rules. Utah Medicaid covers medical care, therapy, and some long-term services for people with autism. If you get SSI or SSDI, you often qualify for Medicaid automatically. If not, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can decide if you are disabled based on medical evidence, even if Social Security has not made a decision [^4].
Utah also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS), which can help with daily living, therapy, and support for people with autism. These waivers have waiting lists and specific rules [^4].
ABLE accounts let people with Autism Spectrum Disorder save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In 2025, you can contribute up to $19,000 per year to an ABLE account. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other needs [^6].
For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit and still get benefits. In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for most people and $2,700 for those who are statutorily blind [^3]. For SSI, income and resource limits are strict and change yearly. Utah Medicaid has its own income limits based on household size and disability status [^4].
You must report changes in income, work, or health to Social Security and Medicaid. If you earn more than the SGA limit, your SSDI benefits may be paused or stopped. If your income drops, you may be able to restart benefits. Always report changes to avoid overpayments and possible repayment [^3].
Yes, adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder can get SSDI if they have a work history and meet Social Security’s disability rules. You need 40 work credits, with 20 in the last 10 years before your disability began [^1].
You can apply for SSI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need medical records and financial documents. SSI is for people with low income and resources [^1].
Yes, Utah Medicaid covers medical care and therapy for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. If you get SSI or SSDI, you often qualify for Medicaid automatically. If not, the State Medicaid Medical Review Board can decide if you are disabled [^4].
Medicaid waivers in Utah help people with autism get home and community-based services, like therapy and daily living support. These waivers have waiting lists and specific rules. Ask your local Medicaid office for details [^4].
Yes, you can work and still get SSDI if your earnings are below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, SGA is $1,620 per month for most people. If you earn more, your benefits may be paused or stopped [^3].
In 2025, you can save up to $19,000 per year in an ABLE account for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other needs without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits [^6].
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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If your income goes above the SGA limit, your SSDI benefits may be paused or stopped. If your income drops, you may be able to restart benefits. Always report changes to avoid overpayments [^3].
Yes, you must report changes in income or work to Medicaid. If your income goes up, your Medicaid eligibility may change. Always report changes to avoid overpayments and possible repayment [^3].
Yes, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder may qualify for SSI if their family meets income and resource limits. They may also qualify for Medicaid and other state programs. Apply through Social Security or your local Medicaid office [^4].
Approval times vary. SSDI and SSI can take several months to a year. Medicaid and waivers may have waiting lists. Apply as soon as possible and keep records of all steps [^4].
