State guide
Utah
Programs, dollars, and people that serve autism families in Utah. Federal protections always apply on top of what you see here.
Utah overview
Utah's Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) administers the HCBS waiver — apply through DSPD the day of diagnosis since waitlists run 3–7 years and the clock starts at application. Baby Watch Early Intervention is Utah's birth-to-three program. The Utah Parent Center is the state's PTI center and highly regarded for IEP support. The University of Utah Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinic and the Autism Council of Utah are key clinical and community resources. Utah mandates ABA therapy coverage through private insurance.
Verify program names, URLs, and eligibility on official .gov sites — these change.
⏰ Act now — Medicaid waiver waitlist
DSPD Home and Community-Based Services Waiver
Typical wait: 3–7 years
Apply through DSPD the day of diagnosis — the waitlist clock starts at application, not when services begin.
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)
Utah Parent Center(801) 272-1051
Federally funded — free help with IEPs, evaluations, and special ed rights.
Early Intervention (Birth to 3)
Utah Baby Watch Early Intervention (UDOH)(800) 550-4887
Part C IDEA services for children under 3. Apply immediately after diagnosis.
Medicaid / HCBS Waiver
Utah Medicaid HCBS Waiver (DSPD)State waiver program for home and community-based services. Apply the day of diagnosis.
State Autism Organization
Utah Autism CouncilState-level autism advocacy, family support, and community connection.
Insurance Coverage
Whether private insurance must cover ABA therapy in Utah.
Utah requires insurance to cover ABA therapy
HB 323 · effective 2014
Covers ABA through age 18 with no dollar cap. Requires autism diagnosis and treatment by a licensed BCBA. Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are exempt — ask HR whether your plan is fully insured or self-funded.
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 Utah.
DSPD (Division of Services for People with Disabilities) Waiver
Utah Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD)
Typical wait time
5-7 years
Coverage highlights
- ✓Respite
- ✓Supported Living
- ✗Therapy
- ✓Employment Supports
Utah's DSPD waiver covers respite, supported living, employment supports, and day programs. The waitlist is 5-7 years and has been closed to new applicants at times — apply as early as possible even at the time of diagnosis. Utah also has a smaller Family Support program that provides some financial assistance while waiting for the full waiver.
How to apply
Medicaid Managed Care
How Medicaid pays for ABA therapy in Utah.
Utah Medicaid (CHIP and traditional Medicaid)
Covers ABA through under 21How to find your plan
Visit medicaid.utah.gov or call 1-866-435-7414. Your plan name is on your Utah Medicaid card.
Major plans in this state
- SelectHealth (Intermountain Healthcare)
- Molina Healthcare of Utah
- University of Utah Health Plans (Community Select Medicaid)
Utah Medicaid covers ABA therapy for children under 21 through EPSDT. Utah has a growing network of ABA providers, particularly along the Wasatch Front. Prior authorization is required through your MCO. Utah also offers the DSPD waiver for developmental disabilities which can fund additional services.
⚠️ Prior authorization is required before starting ABA services.