State guide

Nebraska

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

Nebraska overview

Nebraska's Division of Developmental Disabilities within HHS administers Medicaid HCBS waiver services — apply through your local HHS office as early as possible. Nebraska's waiver has eligibility requirements and a waitlist for some services. For early intervention, contact Nebraska's Early Development Network. PTI Nebraska is the state's PTI center, offering free IEP and special education support. The Autism Society of Nebraska and Munroe-Meyer Institute at UNMC are major family and clinical resources. Nebraska has expanded autism insurance coverage mandates for private payers.

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

⏰ Act now — Medicaid waiver waitlist

Nebraska Medicaid HCBS Waiver — Developmental Disabilities (DHHS)

Typical wait: varies — waitlists exist; apply the day of diagnosis

Apply through Nebraska DHHS Division of Developmental Disabilities the day of diagnosis — DHHS manages HCBS waiver intake 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)

PTI Nebraska

(402) 346-0525

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

Insurance Coverage

Whether private insurance must cover ABA therapy in Nebraska.

Nebraska requires insurance to cover ABA therapy

LB 1009 · effective 2012

Through age 8No dollar capDiagnosis required

One of the weakest mandates in the country — covers ABA only through age 8. Families with older children should pursue Nebraska Medicaid (Heritage Health) or appeal under federal mental health parity law.

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 Nebraska.

Developmental Disabilities Waiver (DDW)

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Developmental Disabilities

Currently closed

Typical wait time

3-6 years

Coverage highlights

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

Nebraska's DDW provides residential, day, and community support services. Nebraska also administers the Medicaid Autism Benefit for children through age 20, which covers ABA therapy — this is separate from the waiver and has no waitlist. Apply to DHHS Division of Developmental Disabilities as early as possible for waiver services.

How to apply

Apply online →402-471-9706

Medicaid Managed Care

How Medicaid pays for ABA therapy in Nebraska.

Nebraska Medicaid (Heritage Health)

Covers ABA through under 21

How to find your plan

Visit dhhs.ne.gov/medicaid or call 1-855-632-7633. Your Heritage Health plan is printed on your Nebraska Medicaid card.

Major plans in this state

  • UnitedHealthcare Community Plan (Heritage Health)
  • Nebraska Total Care (Centene)
  • Molina Healthcare of Nebraska

Nebraska's Heritage Health program uses managed care statewide. ABA therapy is covered for children under 21 through EPSDT. Prior authorization is required. Contact your MCO to find in-network ABA providers near you.

⚠️ Prior authorization is required before starting ABA services.

By county

93 counties