What Happens at 18? Autism Guardianship & Money Mistakes with Melissa Donovan

What happens when your autistic child turns 18?

For many families, this transition brings unexpected legal and financial challenges and without the right plan, it can put your child’s care and benefits at risk.

In this episode of Autism Labs, Mike Carr sits down with certified elder law attorney Melissa Donovan to break down the essential steps parents need to take before their child reaches adulthood.

Melissa specializes in special needs planning, including guardianship, government benefits and estate strategies. She explains how families can protect their child’s future while avoiding common mistakes that could jeopardize critical support like SSI and Medicaid.

Key topics include:

• Why guardianship is not automatic at age 18
• When to begin the guardianship process
• What happens if no legal plan is in place
• How special needs trusts protect benefits
• The role of ABLE accounts in financial planning
• Differences between SSI and SSDI
• Common mistakes families make during transition

This episode is designed for parents, caregivers and professionals supporting individuals with profound autism or complex disabilities.

If you're approaching the transition to adulthood or already navigating it, this conversation will give you clarity and direction on what to do next.

Watch the full podcast here: https://youtu.be/uw6PlQS1NeE?si=6ezDWmyUQGaJDYci