Autistic people and their parents and carers may be entitled to financial support and social security benefits. 

For children under 16:

If you have autistic children under 16, there are a range of general benefits you may be able to access. Some additional benefits are also available specifically for children with disabilities. Disability Living Allowance (DLA) can be claimed for children who have additional care needs or difficulty walking for example. In addition, you may be able to claim Carer’s Allowance if you are looking after a child that qualifies for DLA.

For young people:

Between the ages of 16-20, a child’s entitlement to benefits changes and switches to adults’ benefits. When this change happens, depends on specific personal circumstances. For example, if children stay in full-time education, their parents may still be able to claim child benefit. 

For adults:

Autistic adults may be able to access benefits to meet basic living costs, to pay for care needs or other expenses. This depends on their personal situation and whether they are in paid employment for example. 

For older people: 

Entitlements to benefits change when a person reaches state pension age and Pension Credit qualifying age. At this stage, they can move from working age benefits to benefits for older people. 

Find more information on how to access benefits by visiting the pages below.