Nebraska Autism Waiver Income Limits: A Guide for Families

What Is the Nebraska Autism Waiver?

The Nebraska Autism Waiver is a Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver specifically designed for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It allows families to receive funding for intensive behavioral health services-like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy-in their home, school, or community settings, rather than in an institution. This waiver is administered by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and is part of the state's broader Developmental Disabilities (DD) waiver system.

For families of children with autism, this waiver can be a lifeline. ABA therapy, which is the gold-standard, evidence-based intervention for autism, is often expensive. The autism waiver helps cover those costs, making it possible for many families to access consistent, high-quality care.

At ABA Care Near Me, we're a free matching service that helps families get connected with vetted, BCBA-led ABA therapy providers. We work with many providers across Nebraska who accept the Autism Waiver, so we understand the ins and outs of the program. Here's what you need to know about the income limits and eligibility.

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Nebraska Autism Waiver Income Limits: The Basics

The most common question families ask is: "What are the income limits for the Nebraska Autism Waiver?" The answer, while straightforward, has a few important nuances.

Financial Eligibility Criteria

Because the Autism Waiver is a Medicaid waiver program, income and asset limits are based on Medicaid's financial criteria for HCBS waivers. Generally, to qualify for the Nebraska Autism Waiver:

• Income limit: The individual's income must be at or below 300% of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) federal benefit rate. For 2024, 300% of the SSI rate is approximately $2,382 per month for a single individual (this amount changes annually).
• Asset/resource limit: The individual must have countable resources (assets) below $4,000. This includes cash, bank accounts, stocks, and bonds-but typically excludes the family home, one vehicle, and personal belongings.

Importantly, these limits apply to the child with autism, not the entire household. Parental income and assets are generally not counted for children under 18 who live at home. However, if the child has their own income (e.g., from Social Security), that may be counted.

Why the Income Limit Matters

Understanding the income limit is crucial because it determines whether your child can receive Medicaid coverage through the waiver. If the child's countable income exceeds the limit, they may not qualify-though there are sometimes options like Miller Trusts (qualified income trusts) for individuals over age 65, but those are rare for children. For most families, the child will meet the income limit because children typically have little or no personal income.

If you're unsure about your child's eligibility, the best step is to apply. DHHS will conduct a full financial and medical review. Our free matching service can also guide you to providers who are familiar with the waiver process; they can often help answer initial questions.

Who Is Eligible for the Nebraska Autism Waiver?

Income is only one part of the puzzle. To qualify for the Nebraska Autism Waiver, a child must also meet:

• Age requirement: The waiver typically serves children from age 3 through 20 (some sources say up to age 21). Eligibility may vary based on the waiver tier; check with DHHS for the current age range.
• Diagnosis: A documented medical diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from a qualified professional (e.g., developmental pediatrician, psychologist).
• Level of care need: The child must require a level of care that would otherwise be provided in an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/ID). This is assessed through a functional needs evaluation.
• Residency: The child must be a Nebraska resident.

The waiver is designed for children who need intensive behavioral interventions. Most applicants who meet the diagnostic and level-of-care criteria are approved if they are within the financial limits.

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How to Apply for the Nebraska Autism Waiver

Applying for the Nebraska Autism Waiver involves several steps. Here's what the process generally looks like:

Step 1: Gather Documentation

You'll need your child's autism diagnosis report, proof of Nebraska residency (e.g., utility bill), financial records for the child (bank statements, Social Security award letter if applicable), and any previous evaluations or school records that show functional needs.

Step 2: Contact the Nebraska DHHS

Start by calling the DHHS office in your county or the statewide customer service line. Ask to apply for the Medicaid Autism Waiver. You may be directed to complete a standard Medicaid application first (if your child isn't already enrolled in Medicaid). The waiver is often called the "Autism Waiver" or "HCBS Autism Waiver."

Step 3: Complete a Level of Care Assessment

DHHS will schedule an assessment (often done by a case manager or contracted assessor) to determine if your child meets the ICF/ID level of care criteria. This assessment looks at daily living skills, communication, behavior, and medical needs.

Step 4: Wait for Determination and Potential Waiting List

Nebraska's Autism Waiver has a limited number of slots, and there is often a waiting list. As of recent years, the wait can be several months to over a year. If your child is found eligible but no slot is immediately available, they are placed on a waiting list. Some families enroll in other Medicaid programs or use private insurance while waiting.

Once a slot opens, the family works with a service coordinator to develop a plan of care, which includes authorizing ABA therapy hours and other supports.

What Services Does the Nebraska Autism Waiver Cover?

The waiver covers a range of services designed to support children with autism and their families. Key services include:

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy - intensive one-on-one therapy to build communication, social, and adaptive skills while reducing challenging behaviors.
• Behavioral support services - consultation and training for parents and caregivers.
• Respite care - short-term breaks for families.
• Specialized medical equipment and supplies - if related to the child's autism needs.
• Parent education and training - to help families implement strategies at home.
• Case management/service coordination - to help navigate services.

ABA therapy is the core benefit. The number of hours authorized depends on the child's needs and the waiver budget. Typically, children may receive 15-40 hours per week of direct ABA therapy, plus supervision by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

If you're looking for ABA providers in Nebraska who accept the Autism Waiver, our free matching service can help. We work with vetted, BCBA-led clinics across the state-from Omaha to Lincoln to rural areas-and can connect you quickly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

Navigating the waiver process can be confusing. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Assuming parental income counts against the child. It usually doesn't. Don't let fear of your own income disqualify you from applying.
• Waiting too long to get the diagnosis. You need a formal ASD diagnosis. If you suspect autism, start the diagnostic process early.
• Not applying because you think your child is "too high functioning." The waiver is for any child with autism who needs the level of care-not just those with severe challenges.
• Missing deadlines or not following up. DHHS may request additional info. Stay organized and respond promptly.
• Forgetting to look into other funding sources. While waiting for the waiver, see if private insurance or state-funded programs can cover some ABA therapy.
• Not using a free matching service like ours. We can help you find providers that accept the waiver and understand the process, saving you time and stress.

How Our Free Matching Service Can Help

At ABA Care Near Me, we know that finding an ABA provider who accepts the Nebraska Autism Waiver can be overwhelming-especially while you're also navigating the waiver application. Our service is completely free for families. Here's how we help:

• We maintain a network of vetted, BCBA-led ABA therapy providers across Nebraska.
• We pre-screen providers to confirm they accept the Autism Waiver and other forms of insurance (including Medicaid and commercial plans).
• We match your child's needs, location, and schedule with the best-fit providers.
• We handle the outreach so you don't have to call multiple clinics.

Simply visit our website or give us a call, and we'll get started. There's no obligation, and we never share your information without permission. Our goal is to shorten your wait and get your child into life-changing therapy sooner.

Final Thoughts on Nebraska Autism Waiver Income Limits

The Nebraska Autism Waiver is an incredible resource for families raising a child with autism. The income limits are manageable for most families because they apply to the child's income, not the parents'. If your child meets the diagnostic and level-of-care criteria, it's well worth applying-even if it means joining a waiting list.

While you wait, you can still access ABA therapy through private insurance, self-pay, or other programs. Our matching service can help you find providers regardless of your funding source. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, from understanding the waiver to connecting with a BCBA-led provider who can make a difference.

Remember: you are not alone in this journey. Thousands of Nebraska families have used the Autism Waiver to give their children the bright future they deserve. With patience, persistence, and the right support, your family can too.