By Chris Sharry on September 24th, 2025 in Disability, Disability Qualifying
Autism is a developmental disability that affects how people communicate, interact, and behave. Doctors usually diagnose autism in early childhood, often before age 3. However, some people may not receive a diagnosis until later in life.
Functional Limitations: To meet the criteria for Listing 12.10, your disorder must affect your functioning by causing two or more of the following:
- Difficulty with Social Interaction: Challenges in socializing or interacting with others.
- Difficulty with Communication: Deficits in verbal and nonverbal communication.
- Difficulty in Daily Living Activities: Problems with everyday tasks like feeding, dressing, or personal care.
- Difficulty Completing Tasks: Trouble with concentration, following through, or completing tasks at a reasonable pace.
Meeting the Listing: 12.10 Autism spectrum disorder is satisfied by A and B:
A. Medical documentation of both of the following:
1. Qualitative deficits in verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and social interaction; and
2. Significantly restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.
AND
B. Extreme limitation of one, or marked limitation of two, of the following areas of mental functioning:
1. Understand, remember, or apply information.
2. Interact with others.
3. Concentrate, persist, or maintain pace.
4. Adapt or manage oneself.
You can still qualify for disability even if your autism doesn’t meet the disability listing if you can show that your residual functional capacity (RFC) rules out all jobs. Your RFC is a set of
restrictions that reflect Social Security’s assessment about the most you can do, mentally and physically, in a work setting.
Moving Forward With Your Claim
Qualifying for disability benefits with autism as an adult can be complex, requiring detailed medical evidence and a clear demonstration of how your condition impacts daily functioning and employability. If you believe autism prevents you from sustaining work, it is important to present your case thoroughly, including medical records, evaluations, and documentation of functional limitations. An experienced disability attorney can guide you through the Social Security process, strengthen your claim, and improve your chances of success. For assistance, contact Attorney Christopher Sharry to discuss your situation and learn more about the options available to you.
