Get Started with Financial Assistance for Autism & ABA Therapy
When your child is newly diagnosed with autism, a number of questions and concerns can arise. How can I help? What does this mean for my child’s future? What treatments are best? And, of course, how can I afford therapy?
At Beyond The Spectrum ABA Therapy (BTS), we believe autism treatment should be accessible and affordable for every family. As a parent or caregiver, your focus should be on your child’s well-being and future—not on how to pay for therapy.
Luckily, there are numerous financial support resources available to help parents of children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). Thankfully, all states, including Georgia, now require health insurance companies to cover the cost of autism therapy. Additionally, Medicaid covers these services in many states, including Georgia. However, if your family doesn’t have adequate insurance coverage, financial support may be available through various private and government programs.
Financial Assistance and Support for Families:
We understand that caring for a child with autism can bring financial challenges. There are various programs and grants available to help with therapy, medical expenses, and essential services. For more information on the specific assistance programs that may be available to your family, including support for medical treatments, communication devices, and other essential needs, please contact us directly. Our team is here to guide you through the options and help you find the resources that best fit your family’s needs.
How Beyond The Spectrum ABA Therapy (BTS) Can Help
At Beyond The Spectrum ABA Therapy (BTS), we accept a wide range of insurance plans to help make therapy more affordable for families. Our list of accepted insurance providers continues to grow, and we work hard to ensure that your child’s therapy needs are covered. If you don’t see your insurance listed, please reach out to us, and we’ll work together to discuss what options are available for your family.
Currently Accepted Insurance Plans:
If you have any questions about insurance or financial assistance, Beyond The Spectrum ABA Therapy (BTS) is here to help guide you every step of the way.
BENEFITS AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) IN GEORGIA
What benefits do autistic children get in Georgia?
Georgia State Benefit Programs
Katie Beckett Waiver Program: is a Medicaid program that allows the state of Georgia to provide benefits for the families of disabled children without considering the income of the family. This program is a helpful resource for families whose child meets certain criteria.
Financial Assistance Programs in Georgia
Katie Beckett Waiver Program:
This Medicaid-based program provides assistance to families of children with disabilities, regardless of income. It is especially helpful for families whose children meet specific eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Requirements:
- The child must have a disability under the Social Security Act.
- The child must live with a parent or guardian (not in an institutional setting).
- The child must be under 18 years old and not qualify for SSI.
- Eligibility is based on the child’s care needs.
Program Benefits:
- Covers medical insurance.
- Eliminates copays and deductibles.
- Helps with monthly insurance premiums.
Application Process:
The application requires submitting documents and completing multiple forms.
Family Support Services:
This program evaluates each family’s unique needs to determine the types of assistance required. Services may include providing medical equipment, advocacy for accessing benefits or services, family education, needs assessments, and referrals.
To Apply in Georgia:
Contact Your Local Office or CSB: Visit dbhdd.georgia.gov to find your regional office.
Complete the Process: Submit an application, family support agreement, and required documents (e.g., diagnosis proof, income verification).
Need Help? Call the DBHDD Access Line at 800-715-4225.
These services support families, including children under 18.
ABLE Accounts:
ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts that allow families to save or invest money without affecting their eligibility for means-tested benefits. These accounts are designed to help families manage and grow their savings while still maintaining access to other forms of financial assistance.
Dottie Adams Scholarship Fund:
Previously known as the Partnership Funds and Learning Opportunities Support Fund, this scholarship fund supports individuals with developmental disabilities. It offers financial assistance to attend conferences, training, and advocacy events. Eligible families can receive up to $2,500 per event per person or family. To apply, submit an application along with information about the event you or your child wish to attend, as well as an explanation of how the event will benefit the child.
New Options Waiver (NOW) and Comprehensive Supports Waiver (COMP):
These programs offer assistance to individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities. They provide a wide range of services such as behavior support, vehicle modifications, specialized medical supplies, residential support, employment assistance, and more. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria, including Medicaid eligibility and a confirmed diagnosis of intellectual disability.
Community and State Financial Resources
Community Action Agencies
A great place to start if you are looking for financial help is your local Community Action Agency. Nearly every community in the U.S. has a Community Action Agency. These are non-profit organizations which receive state and federal funding. They administer many assistance programs for low-income residents, including rental assistance, energy assistance, food and nutrition programs, case management, education and literacy programs, and emergency assistance. Your local Community Action Agency will be able to connect you with various programs and sources of financial assistance that are available in your area.
Please keep in mind that funding is often limited for assistance programs through Community Action Agencies. If possible, apply as early as possible for assistance (such as winter energy programs).
Federal Assistance
Katie Beckett Waiver Program:
Some Federal Assistance Parent Resources for Autism Support
Navigating the world of autism services and support can be overwhelming. Below are a few key programs and benefits available to help families access the care, education, and financial assistance they need.
Health Coverage and Financial Assistance
Medicaid and Medicaid Waivers
Medicaid provides essential health coverage for individuals with low income, including children and adults with autism. Services may include therapies, treatments, and other autism-related care.
Medicaid Waivers offer additional support, such as home- and community-based services, to help individuals with autism live more independently.
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
CHIP offers affordable health insurance for children in families that earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Many states include autism services, such as therapy and developmental support, under CHIP.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides monthly financial benefits to children and adults with disabilities, including autism. It also includes Medicaid coverage for medical services and hospital stays. Families must meet income eligibility requirements, and applications require a Child Disability Report.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI benefits may be available to individuals with autism who have a work history and a formal diagnosis. In some cases, children may qualify based on a parent’s eligibility.
Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Accounts
ABLE accounts allow individuals with autism and other disabilities to save money for qualified disability-related expenses, such as therapy, education, and housing. These accounts do not affect eligibility for SSI or Medicaid.
Tax Credits
Parents of children with special needs may qualify for tax credits, such as the Child and Dependent Care Credit or medical expense deductions. A tax expert can help families maximize these benefits.
Education and Development
Early Intervention (IDEA Part C)
Infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) with developmental delays or disabilities, including autism, are eligible for early intervention services funded by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Services include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and developmental therapy.
Special Education Services (IDEA Part B)
Children aged 3–21 with autism are entitled to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) under IDEA. Schools develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) tailored to meet each child’s unique educational and developmental needs.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
Vocational Rehabilitation services support young adults with autism in transitioning from school to work. VR helps individuals develop job skills, find employment, and access other necessary services to live independently and gain financial independence.
Guidance and Support
Family-to-Family Health Information Centers (F2F HICs)
These centers provide personalized guidance to families of children with special healthcare needs, connecting them to local resources, support services, and healthcare options.