The state of Minnesota establishes guidelines for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders as they transition to adolescence and adulthood.
- When the individual reaches age 14 the school district and the county must establish a community transition interagency committee for the person with disabilities.
- By age 16 the child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) should include transition services for the individual as he or she plans for the future. Goals should be focused on what the individuals hope to do in the future.
- Before the age of 17 parents or a caregiver should begin the process of applying for guardianship/conservatorship. Individuals should be notified of the transfer of rights. If parents and/or individuals are not comfortable transferring decision making to the student, a guardian needs to petition for guardianship in probate court. The vocational rehabilitation process should begin two years before the child graduates from high school.
- Before the age of 18 the individual should apply for Social Security benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance and Medicaid (if eligible). The individual should be put on a waiting list for residential placement; waitlists are extremely long.
- At age 18 the individual can register to vote. Males must register for the draft regardless of functioning level. Individuals should apply to adult agencies for vocational programming and supported living programs.
Helpful Links:
Social Security Benefit Application: www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityonline
Social Security Administration: www.socialsecurity.gov/locator
Disability and Supplemental Security Income Information: www.ssa.gov/dibplan/index.htm#ssi
Minnesota Public Housing Agency Contact Information: http://www.hud.com/state/mn.html
Disability Housing Resources: www.disability.gov/housing#map
Vocational Rehabilitation Services: www.positivelyminnesota.com/jobseekers/people_with_disabilities