BISMARCK — North Dakota families of children ages 3 to 17 who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder can apply starting June 1 for autism voucher program services for the upcoming state fiscal year that begins July 1.
New and participating families are encouraged to apply during the annual enrollment period.
Participation is limited to 53 children per year on a first-come, first-served basis.
Vouchers help pay for respite care, assistive technology such as sensory or safety equipment, caregiver training and other support services.
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The program can provide vouchers totaling up to $12,500 per year per participating child. During the 2019 state fiscal year, the average voucher expenditure was $3,030 per child.
To qualify, household income for a family cannot exceed 200% of the federal poverty level, which is $4,367 a month for a family of four. Children who are receiving services through a Medicaid waiver do not qualify for the voucher.
Families must complete the application, which will be available online at www.nd.gov/eforms/Doc/sfn60611.pdf or by contacting the North Dakota Department of Human Services at 701-328-4630, toll-free 800-755-2604, 711 (TTY) or dhsautism@nd.gov .
More information about the department’s autism spectrum disorder services is online at
www.nd.gov/dhs/autism/index.html
.
