BC Autism Funding
British Columbia's direct funding program for autistic children and youth. Provides up to $22,000 per year for children under age 6, and up to $6,000 per year for those aged 6–18. Families use the funding to purchase approved services including applied behaviour analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy. The program is currently active and accepts new applications, though a transition to a new disability benefit model is planned for late 2027.
• Apply immediately after diagnosis, as funding starts from the date of application, not the date of diagnosis • Parents of children under 6 must choose professionals from the RASP list to ensure funding is approved • Up to 20% of funding can be used for travel, training, and equipment (TTE) • Keep all receipts and records for annual financial reporting requirements
You may qualify if: • Your child is a BC resident and under 19 years of age • Your child has a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from a registered psychologist or physician • The diagnosis meets provincial standards (e.g., uses ADOS and ADI-R tools) • There is no income test for this funding
• Autism diagnosis documentation (BCAAN PANTER form or non-BCAAN CF0904 form) • Proof of BC residency and child's birth certificate • Completed Autism Funding Application (CF0901)
1. Obtain an autism diagnosis from a registered professional or the BC Autism Assessment Network (BCAAN) 2. Apply to BC Autism Programs at gov.bc.ca/autism 3. Once approved, sign and return the Autism Funding Agreement within two weeks 4. Select service providers (for under-6, must use the Registry of Autism Service Providers/RASP) 5. Submit a 'Request to Pay' form annually for each chosen provider
• Not applying promptly, resulting in a loss of potential funding weeks • Using service providers for children under 6 who are not registered on the RASP • Forgetting to submit the annual Request to Pay forms, which can lead to payment delays
The Application Helper walks you through each question on a benefit form in plain language — we guide you, never fill it for you.
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View detailsFree disability-benefits navigation services are available if you'd like help understanding or applying for this benefit.
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National
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Languages: English, Interpretation in ASL and other languages on request
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Languages: ASL, LSQ, English, French
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If your application is turned down, the Appeals Guide explains filing deadlines, escalation levels, and where to find free legal and advocate help.
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View detailsAccessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
