Information is subject to change. For the most up-to-date details, please visit the official websites.
Resources Hub
Helpful information, programs, and tools to support you and your child every step of the way.
Autism Waiver Information
Maryland's Autism Waiver is a Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) program that provides eligible children and young adults with autism access to individualized supports and services. The goal is to help build skills, increase independence, and remain safely at home and in the community.Â
What is the Autism Waiver?
The Autism Waiver provides services and supports to eligible children and young adults with autism so they can live at home and participate in their communities. Services are designed to support independence, build skills, and help families thrive.
Who is Eligible?
Children and young adults with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder who meet medical, technical, and financial requirements established by Maryland.
Financial Requirements
Eligibility is based on your child's income and assets, not the family's income. Countable assets must generally be $2,000 or less (or $2,500 in some cases). Learn more about financial eligibility on the Maryland Department of Health website.Â
How to Apply
Apply through the Maryland Autism Waiver Registry. Once your application is received, you'll be placed on the waitlist and notified when it's your turn for eligibility review.
Waitlist Information
The Autism Waiver has a waitlist. We recommend applying as early as possible to secure your place. You can update your information at any time.
Helpful Resources
Autism Waiver Helpline
866-417-3480Â
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Call for questions aboutÂ
the waiver and waitlist.Â
Maryland Autism Waiver
health.maryland.gov/mmcp/ Itss/Pages/autism-waiver.aspx
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Official Maryland Department of Health Resource
Autism Waiver Fact Sheet (MSDE)
https://marylandpublicschools.org/programs/
pages/special-education/autismfactsheet.aspx
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Overview of eligibility and the application process
Local Support
What Services are Available?
The Autism Waiver includes services and supports that are individualized to meet your child's needs. Services are provided in the home and community to promote skill building, independence, and quality of life.Â
Family Consultation
Intensive Individual Support Services (IISS)
Respite Care
Environmental Accessibility Adaptations
Therapeutic and Skill-building Services
Behavior Support & Consultation
Recreation & Social Programs
Local programs that help children and young adults build friendships, stay active, and connect with their community in fun and inclusive ways.Â
Build Friendships and Social Skills
Opportunities to meet peers and develop communication, teamwork, and confidence.Â
Stay Active
Inclusive sports, fitness, swimming, Â
and movement programs for all interests and abilities
Express and Create
Art, music, theater, and creative programs that encourage self-expression
Community Connection
Programs that foster belonging andÂ
inclusion in a supportive environment.
Featured Resources
Keen Greater DC
Free sports, fitness, swimming, and social opportunities.
Special Olympics Montgomery County
Year-round sports andÂ
leadership programs.
Sports Plus
Sports, fitness, swim, and social skills programs.
Miracle League of Montgomery County
Adaptive baseball for children and adults of all abilities.
Montgomery Cheetahs Hockey Club
Ice hockey for youth with developmental disabilites.
ArtStream
Inclusive performing arts classes and productions.
Imagination Stage
Arts across programs, sensory-friendly performances, and theater education.
Ivymount Outreach Programs
After-school and weekend recreation programs for children and teens
Therapeutic Recreation & Fitness
Adaptive fitness, movement, and animal-assissted programs that support independence, wellness, and inclusion.
Move & Play
Fitness and sports programs designed for all abilities and interests.
Build Skills
Programs that improve coordination, strength, and daily living skills.
Mind & Body Wellness
Yoga, boxing, and mindfulness activities to support overall well-being.
Animal-Assisted Programs
Therapeutic experiences with horses and other animals to build connection and confidence.
Featured Resources
Fitness for Health
Adaptive fitness and therapy-based exercise programs.
MoCo Movement Center
Movement, sports, and social skills classes.
SPIRIT Club
Fitness, yoga, boxing, and Zumba programs in an inclusive environment
Kennedy Shriver Aquatic Center
Adaptive swim programs and recreation for the whole family.
Madison Fields
Equine-assisted services and job readiness programs.
Helpful Contacts and Resources
Family Support Helpline
866-417-3480
Call for support, information, and guidance.
Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE)
https://marylandpublicschools.org/
Information on special education and family resources.
Parent Training & Information Centers (PTIs)
Free training and resources for families of children with disabilities.
Wrightslaw
Plain language information about special eduation and advocacy.
The Arc Maryland
Advocacy, resource, and community support.
Parents' Place of Maryland
Family-led support and advocacy for children with special needs.
Downloadable Guides
Helpful guides and toolkits you can dowload and use right away
Recreation & Leisure Opportunities Guide (MCPS)
Programs for children, teens, and adults with disabilities.
Summer Camp Planning Guide
Local camp options andÂ
funding tips.
Therapeutic Recreation Programs
Inclusive recreation activities for individuals of all abilities.
Autism Waiver Family Handbook
Overview of services, eligivility, and provider selections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the Autism Waiver and local resources.
Families must first apply through the Maryland Autism Waiver Registry. Once your child is selected from the registry and determined eligible, you will complete the enrollment process and receive a Plan of Care authorizing services. If you have questions about the process, we're happy to help guide you.
Families have the freedom to choose the provider that best fits their child's needs. When selecting a provider, consider factors such as experience, communication, availability, staff training, and whether the provider's philosophy aligns with your family's goals. At Adaptive Minds Coaching, we believe in individualized, family-centered services built on collaboration, compassion, and meaningful relationships.
Yes. Many Autism Waiver services are designed to help individuals practice skills in real-life community settings, such as grocery stores, parks, recreational programs, libraries, volunteer activities, and other locations that support their treatment goals.
The Autism Waiver Registry is managed by the State of Maryland, and wait times vary depending on funding availability and the number of individuals on the registry. Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed timeline for enrollment. Families are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
If you move within Maryland, you may remain on the Autism Waiver Registry, but it is important to notify the Maryland Department of Health and update your contact information promptly.
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If you move outside of Maryland, you will no longer be eligible for Maryland's Autism Waiver and should explore services available in your new state.