State guide
New Hampshire
Programs, dollars, and people that serve autism families in New Hampshire. Federal protections always apply on top of what you see here.
New Hampshire overview
New Hampshire's Bureau of Developmental Services within DHHS administers area agency contracts for developmental disabilities services — contact your regional area agency to begin the service planning process. NH has a strong provider network relative to its size. For early intervention, contact the Family Support Network. The Parent Information Center (PIC) is New Hampshire's PTI center. The Autism Society of New Hampshire, Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center, and Easter Seals NH provide family support and clinical services. NH Medicaid requires prior authorization for ABA therapy.
Verify program names, URLs, and eligibility on official .gov sites — these change.
⏰ Act now — Medicaid waiver waitlist
New Hampshire Medicaid HCBS Waiver — Developmental Disabilities (BDS)
Typical wait: varies — significant waitlists; apply the day of diagnosis
Apply through NH DHHS Bureau of Developmental Services (BDS) the day of diagnosis — BDS manages waiver intake and DD services statewide.
NH's DD waiver is administered through Regional Support Networks (RSNs) — the bureau will connect you to your regional network.
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 (PIC)(603) 224-7005
Federally funded — free help with IEPs, evaluations, and special ed rights.
Early Intervention (Birth to 3)
NH Family Support (Early Intervention)(603) 271-5122
Part C IDEA services for children under 3. Apply immediately after diagnosis.
Medicaid / HCBS Waiver
New Hampshire Medicaid HCBS Waiver (BDS)State waiver program for home and community-based services. Apply the day of diagnosis.
State Autism Organization
Autism Society of New HampshireState-level autism advocacy, family support, and community connection.
Insurance Coverage
Whether private insurance must cover ABA therapy in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire requires insurance to cover ABA therapy
HB 1518 · effective 2014
Covers ABA through age 21 with no dollar cap — one of the stronger mandates. Requires autism diagnosis and a licensed BCBA. Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are exempt; confirm your plan type 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 New Hampshire.
Developmental Services System / In-Home Support Waiver
New Hampshire Bureau of Developmental Services (BDS)
Typical wait time
2-5 years (varies by service type and area agency)
Coverage highlights
- ✓Respite
- ✓Supported Living
- ✗Therapy
- ✓Employment Supports
New Hampshire operates its developmental services through 10 regional Area Agencies that manage waiver services locally. Eligibility and waitlist timelines vary by area agency. Families should contact their local Area Agency to begin the eligibility process and explore Family Support services available without a waiver.
How to apply
Medicaid Managed Care
How Medicaid pays for ABA therapy in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Medicaid (NH Medicaid Care Management)
Covers ABA through under 21How to find your plan
Visit dhhs.nh.gov/medicaid or call 1-888-901-4999. Your plan name is printed on your NH Medicaid card.
Major plans in this state
- NH Healthy Families (Centene)
- WellSense Health Plan (formerly Boston Medical Center HealthNet)
New Hampshire uses managed care for Medicaid through two plans statewide. ABA therapy is covered for children under 21 through EPSDT. Prior authorization is required. Contact your plan's behavioral health line to find ABA providers and start the authorization process.
⚠️ Prior authorization is required before starting ABA services.