Does Autism count as a disability if it's your child?

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TurboTax Online

maglib

Level 11

@laurabeanbutterfly

The IRS considers autism a disability for tax purposes if it causes a permanent or long-term (>12 months) inability to engage in "substantial gainful activity (https://www.ssa.gov/oact/cola/sga.html)" or necessitates specialized care. It may allow you to qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, Chile and Dependent Care Credit, and tax-advantaged ABLE accounts to help cover medical expenses.

There are many degrees of autism that would qualify and others that would not. My autistic son is a recent college graduate (it took a ton of love and support) and we never claimed it.

You must prove that your child has a permanent or total disability.

To prove your child's disability, get a letter from their doctor, healthcare provider or any social service program or agency that can verify their disability.

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