State guide
Delaware
Programs, dollars, and people that serve autism families in Delaware. Federal protections always apply on top of what you see here.
Delaware overview
Delaware's Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) administers the Lifespan Waiver for adults and the Pathways to Employment waiver. Apply through DDDS early — the adult waiver has a waitlist. For children, Early Intervention is through DHSS Birth to Three. The Parent Information Center of Delaware (PTI) offers free IEP and special education support. The Autism Delaware organization provides direct family services, camps, social programs, and advocacy specific to Delaware families.
Verify program names, URLs, and eligibility on official .gov sites — these change.
⏰ Act now — Medicaid waiver waitlist
Delaware Medicaid HCBS Waiver — Developmental Disabilities (DDDS)
Typical wait: varies — waitlists exist; apply the day of diagnosis
Apply through Delaware DHSS Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) the day of diagnosis — DDDS manages HCBS waiver enrollment and DD services statewide.
Apply or learn more →Statewide resources
These four programs exist in every state and are the fastest entry points for most families.
Parent Training & Information (PTI)
Parent Information Center of Delaware(302) 999-7394
Federally funded — free help with IEPs, evaluations, and special ed rights.
Early Intervention (Birth to 3)
Delaware Early Intervention Program (Birth to Three)(302) 255-9135
Part C IDEA services for children under 3. Apply immediately after diagnosis.
Medicaid / HCBS Waiver
Delaware DDDS HCBS WaiverState waiver program for home and community-based services. Apply the day of diagnosis.
State Autism Organization
Autism DelawareState-level autism advocacy, family support, and community connection.
Insurance Coverage
Whether private insurance must cover ABA therapy in Delaware.
Delaware requires insurance to cover ABA therapy
HB 10 · effective 2013
Covers ABA through age 21 with no dollar cap. Includes both assessment and treatment by a licensed BCBA. Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are exempt — ask HR which type of plan you have.
Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are typically exempt — ask your HR department which type of plan you have.
Medicaid Waiver
Home and community-based services (HCBS) for autism families in Delaware.
Pathways to Independence (PTI) Waiver / Community Supports Waiver
Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS)
Typical wait time
2-5 years (varies by waiver type)
Coverage highlights
- ✓Respite
- ✓Supported Living
- ✗Therapy
- ✓Employment Supports
Delaware DDDS offers multiple waiver options at different levels of support. The Community Supports Waiver serves those with lower needs while the Pathways waiver covers more intensive services. Register with DDDS early to get on the waitlist, as eligibility alone does not guarantee immediate services.
How to apply
Medicaid Managed Care
How Medicaid pays for ABA therapy in Delaware.
Delaware Medicaid (Diamond State Health Plan)
Covers ABA through under 21How to find your plan
Visit dhss.delaware.gov/dss/medicaid or call 1-800-372-2022. Your plan name is on your Medicaid card.
Major plans in this state
- Highmark Health Options
- Molina Healthcare of Delaware
Delaware's Diamond State Health Plan uses managed care for Medicaid. ABA therapy is covered for children under 21 as a medically necessary EPSDT benefit. Contact your managed care plan's behavioral health line to find in-network ABA providers and initiate prior authorization.
⚠️ Prior authorization is required before starting ABA services.