Autism Future Planning: 9 Steps Every Parent Must Take

Most parents think they have time for autism future planning, but the truth is waiting even a year can cost you access to life-changing support and funding. Mike walks through a complete 9-box future-planning checklist for families raising a child with profound autism covering Medicaid waivers, letters of intent, guardianship, special needs trusts, ABLE accounts, residential planning and Social Security benefits. The key takeaway: Uncertainty about the future isn't solved by hoping it's solved by a plan, starting early and building one box at a time. Chapters: 00:00 The School Call That Changed Everything 00:55 Conquering the Fear: What Happens When I'm Gone? 02:15 Box 1: Navigating Medicaid Waivers (HCS & CLASS) 04:06 Box 2: Writing a Letter of Intent Tonight 05:00 Box 3: The $2,000 Asset Limit & ABLE Accounts 06:35 Box 4: Guardianship vs. Supported Decision-Making 08:10 Box 5: When to Setup a Special Needs Trust 08:51 Box 6: Transitioning and Touring Residential Care 10:27 Box 7: Applying for Adult SSI & DAC Benefits 12:07 Box 8 & 9: Annual Court Reports & Accepting the Waiver Slot 🎯 Free one-page checklist inside. See the pinned comment below! ⭐ Subscribe for more conversations on autism, caregiving and lifelong planning.    / @autismlabs   👍 If this episode gave you a new perspective, like, comment and share. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode shares personal experience and is not legal or financial advice. Please consult qualified professionals for guidance. #AutismAdults #disabilitysupport #caregiving #autismawareness #AustinTX #youtubevideo #youtubechannel #youtubepodcast #autismfutureplanning #autism #autismo #autism #autistic