Raising a child with autism comes with unique joys — and challenges. Thankfully, there are several financial, medical, and educational support programs available for families in the U.S., especially in Texas and New Mexico.
Knowing what benefits you can claim for autism can make a big difference in getting the care and services your child deserves.
Understanding Autism Benefits and Support
Autism benefits are designed to help families cover the cost of therapies, medical care, and special education services. The key is knowing where to start — and which programs your child may qualify for.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the main types of benefits available:
1. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If your child’s autism significantly affects daily functioning, they may qualify for SSI, a federal program that provides monthly payments to help with basic needs.
Who qualifies:
- Children under 18 with a medical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Families meeting certain income and asset limits
You can apply through the Social Security Administration (SSA), either online or at your local SSA office.
2. Medicaid and State Health Coverage
Both Texas and New Mexico offer Medicaid programs that cover autism-related services, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
- In Texas:
Children may qualify through STAR Kids or Medicaid for Children with Disabilities (MDCP). - In New Mexico:
Families can access autism services through Centennial Care (the state’s Medicaid program).
Even if your family earns above the typical income limit, your child might still qualify under a Medicaid waiver for children with special needs.
3. Autism Insurance Coverage
Both Texas and New Mexico require many insurance plans to cover autism-related services, including ABA therapy.
This means your insurance should help pay for therapy sessions, behavioral interventions, and certain diagnostic assessments — depending on your plan.
It’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider and ask about:
- Insurance coverage for ABA therapy
- Age or session limits
- In-network providers
4. Educational Support and IEP Services
Under federal law (IDEA – Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), children with autism have the right to special education services in public schools.
You can request an IEP (Individualized Education Program) through your child’s school. This plan outlines personalized goals and support — like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or behavioral assistance — at no cost to you.
5. Tax Benefits for Families with Autism
Parents can also access several tax-related supports:
- Child and Dependent Care Credit for qualified childcare expenses
- Medical expense deductions for therapies and treatments
- ABLE Accounts (Achieving a Better Life Experience) to save money tax-free for future disability-related expenses
These benefits can lighten the financial load of long-term autism care.
Getting Help from ABA Professionals
Navigating benefits can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Steady Strides ABA, families across Texas and New Mexico receive guidance and support in accessing ABA therapy and related services.
Steady Strides ABA offers:
- Home-based autism care for comfort and flexibility
- School-based ABA therapy to support learning in the classroom
- Center-based ABA in Houston for structured, focused sessions
- Autism assessment and ABA parent training for families who want to play an active role in their child’s progress
Our team helps parents navigate insurance coverage and find the right program for each child’s needs.
If you’re in Texas or New Mexico and looking for ABA therapy or autism support, contact Steady Strides ABA today to get started.
FAQs
What financial help is available for autism in Texas?
Families can apply for SSI, Medicaid, and autism insurance coverage. Texas also offers Medicaid waivers and special education support through public schools.
Does New Mexico Medicaid cover ABA therapy?
Yes, ABA therapy is covered under New Mexico’s Centennial Care Medicaid program for children with an autism diagnosis.
Can my child get both ABA therapy and school support?
Absolutely. Many children receive ABA therapy at home or in centers while also having IEP support at school — they work hand in hand.
Sources:
- https://www.texaschildrenshealthplan.org/benefits/star-kids
- https://www.hca.nm.gov/public-information-and-communications/centennial-care/
- https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10026.pdf
- https://aane.org/autism-info-faqs/autism-basics/government-funding-benefits/
- https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/autism-services
