State guide

Michigan

Programs, dollars, and people that serve autism families in Michigan. Federal protections always apply on top of what you see here.

Michigan overview

Michigan's Medicaid developmental disabilities services are administered through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and delivered through Regional Community Mental Health agencies — contact your local CMH agency to begin eligibility and waiver enrollment. The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) provides statewide family support, resource navigation, and community programs. The Michigan Alliance for Families (MAF) is the state's PTI center, offering free IEP support. The University of Michigan's Autism and Communication Disorders Center (UMACC) is a major evaluation resource.

Verify program names, URLs, and eligibility on official .gov sites — these change.

⏰ Act now — Medicaid waiver waitlist

Habilitation Supports Waiver (HSW)

Typical wait: 3–7 years

Apply through your local CMHSP (Community Mental Health) the day of diagnosis — they manage waiver intake for Michigan.

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)

Michigan Alliance for Families

(800) 552-4821

Federally funded — free help with IEPs, evaluations, and special ed rights.

Early Intervention (Birth to 3)

Michigan Early On (MDE)

(800) 327-5966

Part C IDEA services for children under 3. Apply immediately after diagnosis.

Insurance Coverage

Whether private insurance must cover ABA therapy in Michigan.

Michigan requires insurance to cover ABA therapy

PA 171 · effective 2012

Through age 18No dollar capDiagnosis required

Covers ABA through age 18 with no dollar cap. Requires autism diagnosis and treatment supervised by a licensed BCBA. Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are exempt — check with HR.

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 Michigan.

MI Choice Waiver / Habilitation Supports Waiver (HSW)

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Community Mental Health (CMH)

Varies

Typical wait time

2-5 years (varies significantly by CMH region)

Coverage highlights

  • ✓Respite
  • ✓Supported Living
  • ✗Therapy
  • ✓Employment Supports

Michigan delivers DD waiver services through a network of regional Community Mental Health (CMH) agencies. The Habilitation Supports Waiver (HSW) is the primary waiver for people with developmental disabilities. Michigan also provides Autism Spectrum Disorder benefits through Medicaid for children under 21. Contact your local CMH to apply.

How to apply

Apply online →517-335-5671

Medicaid Managed Care

How Medicaid pays for ABA therapy in Michigan.

Michigan Medicaid Health Plans

Covers ABA through under 21

How to find your plan

Visit michigan.gov/mdhhs/medicaid or call 1-888-367-6557. Michigan assigns health plans by region — your plan depends on your county of residence.

Major plans in this state

  • Meridian Health Plan (WellCare)
  • McLaren Health Plan
  • Priority Health Choice
  • Blue Care Network of Michigan

Michigan Medicaid uses regional health plans for managed care. ABA therapy is covered for children under 21 through EPSDT. Behavioral health services may be managed separately through Prepaid Inpatient Health Plans (PIHPs) — contact your MCO to understand the authorization process. Prior authorization is required for ABA.

⚠️ Prior authorization is required before starting ABA services.

By county

83 counties