Early Intervention and ABA in Washington

A faster first step for Washington kids under 3: Part C early intervention, no diagnosis needed.

State coverageAugust 2, 2026

Part C Is Your Fastest Door

If your child is under 3 and you have concerns about development, Washington's Part C early intervention program is the quickest way to get help. You do not need an autism diagnosis to request an evaluation. Federal law requires every state to offer this program, and it is free or low-cost depending on your income.

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 wait for an autism evaluation or an ABA insurance authorization.

How to Request an Evaluation

Call or email your local Part C program and ask for an evaluation. You can find the contact through the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families website. Put your request in writing if you can, and keep a copy.

The program must respond within a set timeline, usually 45 days from referral to evaluation. If your child qualifies, you will get an Individualized Family Service Plan, or IFSP, within 30 days after that.

What an IFSP Includes

An IFSP is a written plan that lists your child's developmental goals and the services to reach them. It covers physical, cognitive, communication, social, and adaptive skills. You are part of the team that writes it, along with service coordinators and therapists.

The plan names a service coordinator who helps you schedule services and connect with other resources. You review the IFSP every six months and update it as needed.

Where Services Happen

Part C services happen in your home or in community settings like a daycare or park. That is different from clinic-based ABA. A therapist might come to your living room to work on communication or play skills with your child.

Typical services include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and developmental therapy. Some programs also offer parent training, so you learn the same techniques to use between visits.

Cost and Payment

Part C is free for many families. Washington uses a sliding scale based on income, and some services may be covered by your insurance or Medicaid. You cannot be denied services because you cannot pay.

Ask your service coordinator about the family fee schedule. They will explain what, if anything, you owe. No one will turn your child away for lack of funds.

Transition at Age 3

At age 3, Part C ends and your child may move to school-district services through an Individualized Education Program, or IEP. The transition starts at least 90 days before your child's third birthday, and the school district does its own evaluation.

If your child qualifies for an IEP, services can continue in a preschool setting. If they do not qualify, you can still pursue ABA through insurance or private pay. Start talking to your service coordinator about the transition early, so nothing falls through the cracks.

The listings for this state give you many options when you are ready for ABA. Your county's page shows what is available near you, and the counties we cover are all included.

Washington listings right now

258 ABA agencies across 19 Washington counties.

Common questions

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

No. Part C serves any child under 3 with a developmental delay or a condition likely to cause one. You can request an evaluation based on your concerns alone, and the evaluation determines eligibility.

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

Yes. Part C provides early intervention services, and ABA is a separate therapy you can get through insurance or private pay. Many families do both, especially if ABA is delayed by insurance authorizations.

What is the cost of Part C in Washington?

Part C uses a sliding scale based on your income. Many families pay nothing. Some services may be billed to your insurance, but you cannot be denied services if you cannot afford the fee.

How long does the Part C evaluation take?

From your first contact, the program has 45 days to complete the evaluation and hold the IFSP meeting if your child qualifies. That includes scheduling and doing the assessment.

What happens to Part C services when my child turns 3?

Part C ends, and your child may transition to school-district services through an IEP. The school district evaluates your child, and if they qualify, services continue in a preschool setting. If not, you can pursue ABA through insurance.

Does Washington's autism insurance mandate cover ABA for my child?

It depends on your plan. State mandates apply only to fully insured plans, not self-funded employer plans under ERISA. Ask your insurer: 'Does my plan cover applied behavior analysis for autism?' and 'What are the limits?' Your plan name is on your member card.