ssi for children with autism

armyofone0508 · 11-03-2009, 11:46 AM

okay, well, i know how the process goes for adults. my 17 year sister lives with me (our dads house isnt a choice as they work alot and i want to get her in therapy...) anyhow...my sister has severe autism (shebarely speaks and really only write her name) and adhd. they found that 12 yrs ago. my dad made too much but now shes with me i make a little (im on ssdi and work 5 hrs). how much of my income counts for her? and will they e able to get records off military hospitals? my dad was in the military but got out in 98 when she 6. any advice?

roses4lace · 11-04-2009, 02:29 AM

Apply for her again, she has a "different living situation" which may change things. Also, when she turns 18, she will have to apply again on her own. If she is applying for SSI, be careful how you describe things. If you are giving her "free rent" or buying her food, they will calculate that as money she has coming in, and reduce her SSI accordingly. There is a balance with "what's fair", and what is a gift. My son had not been paying me anything, because he couldn't work, but I told them I would charge him $250 in rent, and 1/2 utilities when he did have money, and he got the full SSI.

mscat40 · 11-04-2009, 04:42 PM

In my opinion, your sister ought to be able to have full SSI benifits . Austism is a lifelong developmental disability and never goes away. Do you have the proper docuementation? Is she still in school? You will need her school records , such as IEP's and such. Does she recieve services from the local regional center?
Most importantly , since your sister is still a minor , social security will want to know for certain that you are her legal gaurdian. Your going to nee to sho proof of this, as well as her birth cirtifficate, and social security number.
Next , you will be filing on her behalf, and more than likely be her representive payee. If you do not have services for her through your local regional center , I urge you to get into contact with them . They can offer you Respite care. and many other services for your sister's needs.
I have a son who is autistic.
mscat