Autism Funding: Ages 6-18

What it is

Up to $6,000 per year per child for behaviour consultants or analysts, speech-language pathologists, occupational or physical therapists, behaviour interventionists, life skills and social skills programs, out-of-school learning support and tutoring, dietary counselling from registered dieticians, family counselling, and specialized therapeutic camps for autism. Administrative costs up to $50/month (or $600 per period for an accountant) and up to 20% for training, travel and equipment.

Who it is for

Program runs until March 31, 2027, then is replaced by the BC Children and Youth Disability Benefit. Current families transition automatically starting July 2026 — the ministry will contact you. New applications are still accepted until March 2027. This program is being replaced: it accepts new applications until March 2027 and ends March 31, 2027. The Children and Youth Disability Benefit is taking over.

Amount or value

Up to $6,000/year

At a glance

Difficulty

Medium

Application

Application + qualifying diagnostic report

Decision timing

Ask Autism Funding about current processing

How to apply

1. Have an autism diagnosis on file (BCAAN or qualified private assessment)
2. Apply online with a Basic BCeID or send the Application for Autism Funding to mcf.autismfundingintake@gov.bc.ca, or go through your local CYSN office
3. Sign the funding agreement and hire qualified providers
4. Submit invoices for direct payment or claim reimbursements

What you may need

• Diagnostic report or CF0905 confirmation form
• Child's Personal Health Number
• Basic BCeID account for the online portal

Practical tips

• For ages 6-18 providers do not have to be RASP-listed for every service type, so therapy, tutoring and camps are easier to fund than under the Under-6 program
• Specialized autism camps and social-skills groups are eligible — get receipts
• The new Disability Benefit will pay $6,500 (base) or $17,000 (higher tier), so most transitioning families see an increase from the current $6,000
• Ask your CYSN office about the transition schedule if you have not been contacted by fall 2026

Timing

New applications accepted until March 2027; existing families move to the Disability Benefit in phases from July 2026 through March 2027.

Phone

1-877-777-3530