Week zero

Just got a diagnosis

The first thing to do after a diagnosis is secure the paperwork. The second is figure out which clock is running. This guide covers the time-sensitive moves — and what can wait.

The 30-second version

  • Get the written evaluation report — you need it for school eligibility, therapy referrals, and insurance.
  • If your child is under 3: call Early Intervention today. The 60-day clock starts with your call.
  • If your child is 3 or older: send a written evaluation request to your school district.
  • Start a records folder now — future-you will need it for every meeting and appeal.

The evaluation report: get it first

The written report is your most important document. Under IDEA, you are legally entitled to copies at no cost. Make several copies and keep the originals — you will need them for your school district, your pediatrician, your insurance company, and any therapy providers.

Your first calls depend on your child's age

Under 3: Call your state's Early Intervention program. No doctor's note is needed. The 60-day evaluation clock starts from your call. Find your state's program on your state hub page.

Age 3+: Email your school district requesting a special education evaluation. The subject line can simply be: "Written request for special education evaluation for [child's name]." The district has 60 days to respond.

All ages: Call your insurance and ask what your autism benefit covers and what prior authorization requires. Write down the date, time, and name of who you spoke with.

What can wait

You do not need to research every therapy, join every group, or plan for adulthood this week. The most common early mistake is acting on everything at once and burning out before the real work begins.

The checklist above covers the time-sensitive moves — the ones with legal clocks or waitlists. Everything else has more flexibility than it feels like right now.

Your action checklist

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Who helps with this?

The system

Your state

Your state's Parent Center and DD Council are free, expert allies.

Add your location above to see state-specific resources.

The people

Your area

Local diagnostic centers, early intervention providers, and support groups.

Set your county to see local help.

Primary sources