NH Autism Resources: Financial Help, Medicaid & Local Agencies
A complete guide to New Hampshire resources that can help reduce the cost of autism services and support your family.
Many Families Don't Know They Qualify for Help
Your child may qualify for NH Medicaid—even if you think your income is too high. Programs like Katie Beckett Medicaid are based on your child's disability, not your family income. This can eliminate copays and cover 100% of ABA therapy costs.
How NH Medicaid Helps Families with Autism
New Hampshire Medicaid provides comprehensive coverage for autism services. If your child qualifies, you could pay $0 out-of-pocket for:
Financial Assistance Programs in NH
Several programs can help reduce or eliminate the cost of autism services:
NH Medicaid (Granite Advantage)
Full healthcare coverage including ABA therapy. Many families qualify even with moderate incomes. No copays for autism services.
Eligibility: Income-based; higher limits for children with disabilities
Katie Beckett Medicaid
Special Medicaid program for children with significant disabilities, regardless of parent income. Based on child's disability, not family income.
Eligibility: Based on child's disability level, not family income
Developmental Disabilities Waiver
Home and community-based waiver providing additional services beyond standard Medicaid, including respite care and family support.
Eligibility: Medicaid-eligible individuals with developmental disabilities
Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Low-cost health coverage for children in families with incomes too high for Medicaid but who can't afford private insurance.
Eligibility: Income-based for families above Medicaid limits
Easter Seals NH
Provides financial assistance, respite care, and support services for families of children with disabilities.
Eligibility: Varies by program
💡 Pro Tip: Katie Beckett Medicaid
Even if your family income is $100,000+, your child may qualify for Medicaid through the Katie Beckett program (also called TEFRA). This program looks at your child's disability level, not your income. Contact NH DHHS at (603) 271-5034 to learn if your child qualifies.
👉 Download our Step-by-Step NH Medicaid Guide for detailed application instructions.
Local Agencies That Can Help
These New Hampshire organizations provide support, advocacy, and resources for families:
NH Bureau of Developmental Services
State agency providing developmental disability services, including Area Agency referrals, waiver programs, and family support.
Area Agencies (10 regions across NH)
Local agencies that coordinate developmental services in your region. They help with service coordination, respite care, and family support.
NH Family Voices
Family-to-family health information center providing support, resources, and advocacy training for families of children with special needs.
Parent Information Center (PIC)
Free training and information for parents of children with disabilities about special education rights and IEP advocacy.
Disability Rights Center - NH
Legal advocacy organization protecting the rights of people with disabilities, including education and healthcare rights.
Autism Society of NH
Support groups, events, and resources for families affected by autism throughout New Hampshire.
Finding an IEP Advocate in NH
Navigating special education can be overwhelming. These organizations offer free or low-cost advocacy support:
- Parent Information Center (PIC) - Free IEP training and advocacy support
- NH Family Voices - Family-to-family support and advocacy training
- Disability Rights Center - NH - Legal advocacy for rights violations
- Private Educational Advocates - For complex cases requiring professional representation
Need help finding an advocate? See our advocate referral page for a list of NH-based advocates and resources.
How to Apply for Medicaid in NH
- Apply online at nheasy.nh.gov
- Call NH DHHS at (603) 271-9700
- Visit your local DHHS office
- Ask about Katie Beckett if your child has significant support needs
We Accept NH Medicaid
Buzz ABA accepts NH Medicaid and most private insurance. We can help verify your benefits before you start.