People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Vermont can access federal benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state services for developmental disabilities. Eligibility depends on income, resources, and medical documentation. Vermont does not have a state disability insurance program, but offers Medicaid waivers and other supports.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is recognized as a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA). To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and meet SSA’s definition of disability. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a qualifying work history and meet the SSA’s disability criteria. Both programs require medical documentation of ASD and its impact on daily life. SSI is for those with low income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have paid into Social Security through work.
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Vermont does not have a state disability insurance program. Only five states offer this, and Vermont is not one of them. However, Vermonters with Autism Spectrum Disorder can access federal disability benefits (SSI and SSDI) and state services for developmental disabilities. The Agency of Human Services provides developmental disability services, including case management, residential support, and employment services. Eligibility for these services is based on diagnosis, functional limitations, and need for support. Vermont also offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services (HCBS) for people with developmental disabilities, including ASD. These waivers help pay for services not covered by regular Medicaid.
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Vermont does not have a state disability insurance program. However, Vermont offers several programs for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder:
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ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts for people with disabilities. Vermont offers ABLE accounts through the ABLE United program. You can use ABLE account funds for qualified disability expenses, such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services. To open an ABLE account, you must have a disability that began before age 26 and meet SSA’s disability criteria. ABLE accounts do not affect SSI or Medicaid eligibility if the balance is below $100,000.
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For SSI, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. The value of your home and one car are not counted. For SSDI, there are no resource limits, but your income must be below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. For 3SquaresVT, Vermonters with disabilities may not have to meet income limits if everyone in the household receives disability benefits.
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If you receive too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. For SSI and SSDI, report changes online or by phone. For 3SquaresVT, report changes online or at your local Department for Children and Families office. If you have questions about overpayments or reporting, contact Legal Services Vermont.
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Legal Services Vermont offers free help with applications, appeals, and complaints. Call 1-800-889-2047 or visit their website for more information.
Yes, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder can get SSI if they meet SSA’s disability criteria and have limited income and resources. Children with ASD may qualify if family income and resources are low. Adults with ASD may qualify based on their own income and resources.
No, Vermont does not have a state disability insurance program. Only five states offer this, and Vermont is not one of them. Vermonters must apply for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI.
Vermont offers developmental disability services through the Agency of Human Services. These services include case management, residential support, employment services, and more. Eligibility is based on diagnosis, functional limitations, and need for support.
Apply for Medicaid waivers through the Vermont Agency of Human Services. You will need to provide documentation of your disability and need for services. The agency can help you determine eligibility and apply.
Yes, you can get 3SquaresVT (SNAP) food assistance if you have Autism Spectrum Disorder. Vermonters with disabilities may not have to meet income limits if everyone in the household receives disability benefits.
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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An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. Vermont offers ABLE accounts through the ABLE United program. You must have a disability that began before age 26 and meet SSA’s disability criteria.
If your application for disability benefits is denied, you can appeal the decision. Legal Services Vermont can help you with appeals and complaints. You can also appeal online or by phone through the Social Security Administration.
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes online or by phone for SSI and SSDI. For 3SquaresVT, report changes online or at your local Department for Children and Families office.
Out-of-pocket medical costs like over-the-counter medications, insurance premiums, medical supplies, dentures, prescriptions, and home health aid can increase your 3SquaresVT benefits. You must provide documentation of these costs.
Yes, Legal Services Vermont provides free legal help for appeals and complaints related to disability benefits and services. You can call them at 1-800-889-2047 or fill out their online form.
