Early Intervention and ABA in Washington DC

Get your child under 3 evaluated fast through DC's Part C program, then layer in ABA if needed.

State coverageAugust 2, 2026

Part C is your fastest first step

If your child is under 3 and you suspect autism, you don't need a diagnosis to get help. Every state, including Washington DC, runs a federally required early intervention program called Part C. In DC, it's the DC Early Intervention Program. This is the fastest door because it's free or low cost and doesn't wait for an autism evaluation.

Part C and insurance-funded ABA are separate systems. You can use them in sequence or at the same time. Many families start with Part C while they pursue a formal autism diagnosis and then add ABA through insurance. Part C can also help you figure out what your child needs before you commit to a therapy schedule.

How to request an evaluation

You request an evaluation in writing. Send a letter or email to the DC Early Intervention Program asking for a Part C evaluation. You don't need a referral from a doctor, and you don't need a diagnosis. Just say you're concerned about your child's development and want an evaluation.

The program must respond within a set timeline, usually 45 days from referral to evaluation and, if eligible, to writing an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). You can also call the program's intake line to start the process, but put your request in writing to have a record. Ask for a written confirmation that they received it.

What an IFSP includes

If your child qualifies, a team writes an IFSP with you. The IFSP lists your child's strengths and needs, your family's concerns, and the specific services your child will get. It also says where services happen and how often.

Services under Part C are delivered in your home or in community settings like a daycare or park. That's a big difference from clinic-based ABA. The IFSP is reviewed every six months and updated at least once a year. You're part of the team and you approve the plan before it starts.

Cost and who pays

Part C is free or sliding scale depending on your income. In DC, you won't be turned away if you can't pay. Some services may be covered by your insurance, but the program can't require you to use insurance if it would cost you money or use up your benefits.

The IFSP should tell you what, if anything, you'll pay. Ask the service coordinator directly: 'What will this cost me?' If they mention a fee, ask for the sliding scale based on your income. Many families pay nothing.

ABA through insurance after a diagnosis

Once your child has an autism diagnosis, you can seek ABA through your health insurance. DC has an autism insurance mandate, but it only applies to fully insured plans. If your employer self-funds its plan, ERISA exempts it from the mandate, though many self-funded plans still cover ABA. Your plan documents will tell you.

Ask your insurer this exact question: 'Does my plan cover applied behavior analysis for autism, and what are the session limits, prior authorization requirements, and provider network rules?' Limits vary by plan, so don't rely on a general number. Your member card lists your plan name and a customer service number.

Medicaid covers medically necessary ABA for children under 21 through EPSDT. If your child is on Medicaid, ask your Medicaid plan about ABA coverage and how to find a provider. The plan name is on your member card.

Transition to school services at age 3

Part C stops on your child's third birthday. At least six months before that, your service coordinator must help you transition to the DC Public Schools system. The school district evaluates your child for special education preschool services under IDEA Part B.

That evaluation is separate from Part C. If your child qualifies, they get an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that can include speech, occupational therapy, and other supports. ABA is not automatically part of an IEP, but you can request it if it's needed for your child to benefit from education. The transition meeting happens before age 3, so start the conversation early.

Washington DC listings right now

27 ABA agencies across 1 Washington DC counties.

Common questions

Do I need an autism diagnosis to get early intervention in DC?

No. Part C does not require a diagnosis. You just need a developmental concern. The evaluation will determine if your child qualifies based on developmental delay or a condition that has a high probability of delay.

How long does the Part C evaluation take in DC?

From your written request, the program has 45 days to evaluate and, if eligible, write an IFSP. That includes scheduling and completing the evaluation. Ask for written confirmation of your request date.

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

Yes. Part C services and ABA are separate. Many families use Part C for developmental supports while also starting ABA through insurance. The IFSP team can coordinate, but you don't have to choose one.

What if my employer's plan is self-funded?

Self-funded plans are exempt from DC's autism mandate under ERISA. But many still cover ABA. Call the number on your member card and ask directly: 'Does my plan cover ABA for autism?' Get the answer in writing.

What happens to Part C services at age 3?

Part C ends on the third birthday. The school district evaluates your child for preschool special education. If eligible, an IEP takes over. Start the transition at least six months before the birthday.

How do I find an ABA provider in DC?

Your insurance plan has a provider directory. You can also ask your Part C service coordinator for local recommendations. Check with your plan to confirm a provider is in network.