State guide
Washington
Programs, dollars, and people that serve autism families in Washington. Federal protections always apply on top of what you see here.
Washington overview
Washington State's Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) within DSHS administers Medicaid HCBS waiver services. Apply through DDA as early as possible — Washington's Supported Living and Community Access waiver programs have waitlists. For early intervention, contact Washington's Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT) program. Washington PAVE is the state's PTI center, one of the most resource-rich in the Northwest. The University of Washington Autism Center is a major clinical and research resource. Washington State mandates ABA insurance coverage.
Verify program names, URLs, and eligibility on official .gov sites — these change.
⏰ Act now — Medicaid waiver waitlist
DDA Supported Living and Community Protection Waivers
Typical wait: 2–5 years
Apply through DDA the day of diagnosis — Washington's DDA manages eligibility and waiver intake 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)
Washington PAVE(800) 572-7368
Federally funded — free help with IEPs, evaluations, and special ed rights.
Early Intervention (Birth to 3)
Washington State Birth to 3 (DCYF)(800) 322-2588
Part C IDEA services for children under 3. Apply immediately after diagnosis.
Medicaid / HCBS Waiver
Washington DDA Supported Living Waiver (HCA)State waiver program for home and community-based services. Apply the day of diagnosis.
State Autism Organization
Autism Society of WashingtonState-level autism advocacy, family support, and community connection.
Insurance Coverage
Whether private insurance must cover ABA therapy in Washington.
Washington requires insurance to cover ABA therapy
SB 6032 · effective 2011
One of the strongest mandates — no age cap and no dollar cap. Requires autism diagnosis and treatment by a licensed BCBA. Self-funded employer plans (ERISA) are exempt; confirm your plan type with HR or the WA Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
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 Washington.
DDA Medicaid Waivers (HCS and CFC)
Washington Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)
Typical wait time
Generally eligibility-based rather than waitlisted for core services
Coverage highlights
- ✓Respite
- ✓Supported Living
- ✗Therapy
- ✓Employment Supports
Washington state's DDA system is eligibility-based rather than requiring years on a waitlist for core services — a significant advantage for families. Once eligible, individuals can access Home and Community Services and Community First Choice (CFC) supports. Washington Medicaid also covers ABA therapy for children under 21. Apply through DSHS DDA to begin the eligibility process.
How to apply
Medicaid Managed Care
How Medicaid pays for ABA therapy in Washington.
Apple Health (Washington State Medicaid)
Covers ABA through all agesHow to find your plan
Visit hca.wa.gov/apple-health or call 1-800-562-3022. Your Apple Health plan is listed on your Medicaid card.
Major plans in this state
- Amerigroup Washington
- Community Health Plan of Washington
- Coordinated Care (Centene)
- Molina Healthcare of Washington
Washington Apple Health is notable for covering ABA therapy for all ages with an autism diagnosis — not just children. Regional managed care plans manage care delivery. Prior authorization is required. Washington has a strong provider network in the Puget Sound area; rural families may need to explore telehealth ABA options.
⚠️ Prior authorization is required before starting ABA services.