Is child with autism considered disabled?

[AnnaB · Accepted solution]

Whether or not your autistic dependent, spouse or yourself, is considered disabled depends on their level of functioning.

The IRS defines disability as permanently and totally disabled.  The person in question must meet the following two requirements to meet this definition:

1. He or she cannot engage in any substantial gainful activity because of a physical or mental condition and
2. A doctor determines the condition has lasted or can be expected to last continuously for at least a year or can lead to death.

The good news, for a child dependent, it likely doesn't impact your tax situation depending on the age of your child.  You can continue to claim your child or other eligible dependent as a qualifying child dependent until age 18, or age 23 if a full-time student.

The disability qualification takes away the age limitation for the qualifying child dependent test.