Social Security Disability Conditions: Intellectual Disabilities

March 28, 2014

People who suffer from conditions that prevent them from working can apply for Social Security Disability benefits. But a growing number of claims are being filed for individuals suffering from Intellectual Disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The increase in the number of claims associated with the condition can be attributed to a growing number of diagnoses. The Daily Beast reports that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state 1 in 68 United States children are diagnosed with ASD each year. The estimate is as much as 30 percent higher than the total number of cases reported in 2012.

Experts believe the reason for the increase in ASD diagnosis isn’t necessarily that there are more individuals suffering from the disease. Instead, they believe an increased awareness of the condition, combined with certain changes made to the diagnosis protocol of the disease, are the main contributing factors.

A spokesperson for the Autism Science Foundation, Alison Singer, believes that while more awareness of the disease could be seen as a good thing, it could have a negative impact on the resources and services available to these individuals as public opinion on the serious nature of the condition changes.

That is why the Social Security Disability Lawyers with Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin say it is important to discuss your legal rights with a qualified attorney if you or a loved one have been diagnosed with ASD.