The process of transitioning into adulthood requires a particular timeline for those with autism and other special needs, according to Anne Marie Mazzu, a trusts and estates partner at the law firm of Davison, Eastman & Muñoz.
At age 14, a case manager and child study team should discuss the transition. At 16, an individualized education plan should be developed to include information about the transition. Vocational instruction should also begin at this time and be included in the plan.
Age 18 is an important age when thinking about transition and the future. By the time a child with autism is 18, a guardianship or conservatorship should be in place. This can be applied for 60-90 days before the child’s 18th birthday, depending on the county.
In order to apply for guardianship, two physicians must examine the child. A legal assistant is recommended for this process.
Mazzu explained that parents may have difficulties with medical physicians and pharmacies since, in the eyes of the law, 18 is the age of majority in the state of New Jersey.
An application should be filed for Social Security benefits, Social Security disability, and, if eligible, Medicaid. If a child is not eligible for Medicaid, parents may consider other health insurance options since the child may not be covered under a parent’s plan any longer after the age of 18.
Applications for Social Security cannot be filed until the child reaches 18, but it is a good idea to gather the necessary information to apply. Having information ready for application can shorten the process.
At 18, parents can apply for a personal identification card from the New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicles. Although children may have school identification, it is a good idea to have a state picture form of identification, Mazzu said.
Parents may also wish to place a child’s name on a waiting list for residential placement in New Jersey, since these residential facilities often have lengthy waiting lists, Mazzu said.
For male children, parents will receive an application for the military draft, which must be completed regardless of the child’s functioning ability.
If a child is not staying in school until the age of 21, parents should apply to adult agencies for vocational and day programs and seek out other support that may be available.
Special education programs through the Department of Education will no longer be available after the individual’s 21st birthday.
Other agencies, such as the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and the Division of Developmental Disabilities, can offer assistance.
For more information, visit www.autismnj.org.