How do the New 2026 Virginia Budget Rules Affect Medicaid Aba Eligibility?

The new 2026 Virginia budget rules specifically impact the scale of support for families utilizing Home-based ABA therapy. Under these updated guidelines, Virginia Medicaid typically covers up to 20 hours per week of therapy in the home setting, provided that the service meets the DMAS ABA medical necessity criteria.

While home-based services remain the most commonly authorized option, other settings are subject to different limitations under the 2026 rules:

• School-based ABA consultation: Typically limited to 10 hours or less per week and requires a school support plan and collaboration with the school.
• Center-based ABA therapy: Often restricted to 15 hours or less per week and may require a higher-level medical necessity review.
• Parent training: Usually includes up to 2 hours per week and is integrated into the child’s overall treatment plan without requiring a separate authorization.

To ensure your child remains eligible, we must establish medical necessity through a BCBA assessment. As part of our Insurance management and authorization services, we handle the documentation and submission process for you. Standard reviews for these authorizations generally take between two to eight weeks.

We count on our parents as active partners, and we want you to know you’re not on your own. Results may vary based on individual patient circumstances, and we recommend consulting with a healthcare professional for specific treatment advice. A Bright Future is Waiting for Your Child, and we are here to help you succeed with ABA.

• Virginia Medicaid ABA Therapy Coverage: Complete Guide