Learning More About Your Accident

Growing up with autism can be difficult enough, but living as an autistic adult can be even more of a challenge. If you have autism spectrum disorder and are struggling to hold down a job and live independently, you may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, benefits. Psychological conditions like autism can be more difficult to prove as a disability than a physical illness, but with the help of an experienced attorney, you should be able to present a strong case and get the assistance you need to maintain an adequate quality of life.  

Determining Your Eligibility

In order to qualify for SSDI benefits, you must first have accrued Social Security credits, typically by working an approved job for a sufficient amount of time. If you do not have enough credits to meet these minimum qualifications, you may instead look to Supplemental Security Income to meet your needs. If you aren't certain about your credit status, you can check your total online through the Social Security Administration's website. 

Obtaining Proof of Diagnosis

The effects of your autism may be blatantly obvious to you, but you will need to prove your disability to others before you can be approved for any benefits. This usually requires a formal diagnosis through a trained physician or psychologist. If you have never been officially diagnosed, you will need to do so before you apply for SSDI income. Otherwise, you can simply request a copy of your diagnosis from your physician to include with your application. 

Demonstrating an Inability to Work

Many individuals with autism are able to live relatively normal lives, including pursuing a career. Depending on the severity of your condition, this may not be the case for you, but SSDI applicants must be able to show that their disability significantly impacts their ability to earn a living. Demonstrating a disappointing prior work history or documenting unsuccessful job interviews may be enough to push your claim through, but you may also need the recommendation of a physician confirming your disability. 

Seeking an Attorney to Handle Your Case

Autism is marked by difficulties with communication and executive functioning, both of which are crucial for arguing your case and progressing through the application process. Because of this, it is especially important that you hire a Social Security Disability attorney at Goebel Law Office to represent you and ensure that all of the necessary paperwork is filed on time. Living on the autism spectrum can be a daily struggle, but you don't have to fight alone or resign yourself to a life of poverty. By taking action now to find the right attorney and begin filing your claim, you could save yourself decades of stress, hardship and dependence in the future.