Autism Wavier

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 Arkansas offers a specialized Autism Waiver that can help families access intensive, individualized intervention services, including supports that may include ABA therapy. This waiver is separate from traditional Medicaid and has its own rules 

•  The Autism Waiver in Arkansas is designed for young children with a diagnosis of autism.  
• To qualify, a child must have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis and generally be between approximately 18 months and 5 years old.  
• A child must begin receiving services before their 5th birthday and may continue for a limited number of years once enrolled, depending on waiver rules and availability.  
• Many families also experience waitlists for waiver slots, as demand often exceeds availability.

•  The Autism Waiver is intended to provide intensive, family-centered supports in natural environments such as the home, community, or school.  
• It is typically administered through the state’s waiver programs and often requires: 

                            Proof of autism diagnosis 

                            Evaluation of functional needs
                           Application through the appropriate state agency
Because waiver slots are limited, families may be placed on a waiting list and must maintain contact with the state agency while waiting for enrollment.

 If your child is approaching the upper end of the age range (near 5 years old), it’s important to begin the waiver application process early to maximize eligibility before age limits apply. 

 You can find official details and application guidance on the Arkansas Department of Human Services site and the Arkansas Autism Partnership site:

👉 Autism Waiver Detailed Fact Sheet (Arkansas DHS) — official information on eligibility and services.
👉 Arkansas Autism Partnership (AAP) — information about the program and application process.

•  Having an autism diagnosis is required both for Medicaid-funded ABA and for the Autism Waiver in Arkansas.  
• The Autism Waiver offers a distinct support pathway that can cover a broader range of interventions in natural environments, complementing or augmenting traditional ABA therapy paid through Medicaid.