What you have to prove
Medical documentation of qualitative deficits in verbal/nonverbal communication and social interaction AND significantly restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, AND marked limitation of two (or extreme of one) Paragraph B areas.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Developmental history, ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) assessments, IEP or 504 plan records for younger adults, occupational and speech therapy records, and caregiver statements.
Common misconceptions
High-functioning adults on the spectrum who live independently and hold jobs rarely qualify. Applications are strongest when paired with comorbid conditions (intellectual disability, epilepsy, severe anxiety).
Didn't meet the listing? You can still qualify via a Medical-Vocational
Allowance — SSA's determination that your residual functional capacity, combined with
your age, education, and work history, leaves no jobs you can do. See our
appeals guide for what to do after an initial denial.