Early Intervention and ABA in Kentucky

Get your child under 3 help fast through Part C, then layer in ABA if needed.

State coverageAugust 2, 2026

Start with Part C, not insurance

If your child is under 3 and you suspect autism, the fastest first step in Kentucky is not an insurance claim. It is a free evaluation through Kentucky's Part C early intervention program. Every state runs one, and you do not need a formal autism diagnosis to ask for it.

Part C and insurance-funded ABA are separate systems. You can use them in sequence or at the same time. Part C gets you in the door quickly, while you sort out insurance coverage for ABA. Many families do both.

How to request an evaluation

To start, put your request in writing. Send a letter or email to your regional Part C office (ask your pediatrician for the contact, or call the state's early intervention line). Say something like: 'I am requesting a Part C evaluation for my child [name], age [months]. I am concerned about [delays or behaviors].'

The program must respond within a set timeline, usually 45 days from referral to evaluation. You do not need a doctor's referral, but a pediatrician's note can help. The evaluation is free, and it looks at five areas: cognitive, physical, communication, social-emotional, and adaptive skills.

What an IFSP is and how services work

If your child qualifies, you will work with a team to write an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Unlike an IEP later, the IFSP focuses on your family's goals for your child, like 'use two-word phrases' or 'respond to his name.'

Services are delivered in your home or in community settings like a daycare or park. A provider comes to you, not the other way around. Typical services include developmental therapy, speech, and occupational therapy. The IFSP is reviewed every six months, and you can request changes anytime.

Cost and how it works

Part C is free for evaluation and service coordination. Direct services may have a sliding scale fee based on your income, but no family is turned away for inability to pay. In Kentucky, many families pay nothing, but the exact amount depends on your household size and income.

Ask your service coordinator about the fee schedule before services start. They will tell you if there is a charge and what it is. You can also use private insurance to pay for Part C services if you prefer, but you are not required to.

Transition to school services at age 3

At age 3, your child ages out of Part C. The program must hold a transition conference at least 90 days before the third birthday. At that meeting, you will talk about moving to your local school district's preschool program, which is covered under IDEA Part B.

The school district will evaluate your child for an IEP. If your child qualifies, they get free preschool services. The transition is not automatic; you must attend the meeting and sign off. Start planning early, and ask your service coordinator for a transition timeline.

How ABA fits in

ABA is a separate, insurance-funded service. Part C does not typically provide intensive ABA, but it can complement it. You can run an IFSP and an ABA program at the same time, as long as your insurance covers ABA.

In Kentucky, your ABA coverage depends on your plan. State law requires ABA coverage for fully insured plans, but self-funded employer plans are exempt under ERISA, though many cover it anyway. Ask your insurer: 'Does my plan cover applied behavior analysis for autism? What are the annual limits and prior authorization requirements?' The plan name is on your member card.

Kentucky listings right now

143 ABA agencies across 44 Kentucky counties.

Common questions

Do I need an autism diagnosis to get Part C services?

No. Part C evaluates for developmental delays, not a specific diagnosis. You can request an evaluation based on concerns alone. If your child qualifies, they get services. A formal autism diagnosis is not required for Part C, though it may be needed for insurance-funded ABA.

How long does the Part C evaluation take?

From your written request, the program must complete the evaluation within 45 days. That includes scheduling, testing, and the meeting to determine eligibility. If your child qualifies, services start soon after, often within weeks.

What does Part C cost in Kentucky?

The evaluation and service coordination are free. Direct services may have a sliding-scale fee based on income, but no one is denied for inability to pay. Ask your coordinator for the fee schedule; many families pay nothing.

Can I use Part C and ABA at the same time?

Yes. Part C provides developmental therapy and coordination, while ABA is a separate therapy you get through insurance. They can run concurrently. Just make sure your ABA provider and Part C team communicate, and check with your insurer about ABA coverage limits.

What happens at age 3?

Part C ends. You will have a transition meeting at least 90 days before the third birthday to plan the move to your school district's preschool program. The district evaluates for an IEP, and if your child qualifies, they get free preschool services.

How do I find ABA providers in Kentucky?

Our directory lists ABA agencies across the counties we cover. The largest concentrations are in Jefferson County, Fayette County, and Warren County. You can search by county and contact providers directly to ask about availability and insurance.