Autism Evaluation Cost in Montana
In Montana, private-pay autism evaluations typically run $1,500–$4,500 (~$2,800 average). Commercial insurance covers evaluations under the state mandate; out-of-pocket runs $0–$1,500. Montana Medicaid covers evaluations fully for children under 21 under EPSDT. In-state waits of 9–18 months are common; many families travel to Seattle, Spokane, Salt Lake City, or Minneapolis.
Quick Answer
In Montana, private-pay autism evaluations typically run $1,500–$4,500 (~$2,800 average). Commercial insurance covers evaluations under the state mandate; out-of-pocket runs $0–$1,500. Montana Medicaid covers evaluations fully for children under 21 under EPSDT. In-state waits of 9–18 months are common; many families travel to Seattle, Spokane, Salt Lake City, or Minneapolis.
- Private-pay range: $1,500-$4,500 (typical about $2,800).
- Commercial insurance: $0–$1,500 depending on deductible and plan type.
- Medicaid: covered with a typical copay of $0.
Private-pay (no insurance)
For a comprehensive pediatric evaluation (history, ADOS-2, cognitive testing, written report). Updated 2026-04-21.
Commercial Insurance
$0–$1,500 depending on deductible and plan type
Typical out-of-pocket
Montana's autism insurance mandate (M.C.A. § 33-22-515) requires coverage for autism services including evaluations on state-regulated plans. Self-funded ERISA plans are exempt — confirm your plan type before scheduling.
Medicaid
$0
Typical copay
Montana Medicaid covers diagnostic evaluations under EPSDT for enrolled children under 21. Healthy Montana Kids (CHIP) also covers evaluations for eligible children.
Wait Times
3–6 months in Billings/Missoula/Bozeman; longer in rural areas
Private psychologist
Major center: 9–18 months (Shodair, Billings Clinic, Logan Health, Bozeman Health)
Editorial Review
Cost ranges on this page are directional estimates compiled from published price lists, public fee schedules, and manual review.
Actual charges depend on the provider, testing scope, insurance contract, and your deductible or network status. Confirm fees and prior authorization requirements before scheduling.
Last reviewed 2026-04-21 by Autism Hearts Editorial Team
Wait Times by Provider Type
- Major medical center
- 9–18 months (Shodair, Billings Clinic, Logan Health, Bozeman Health)
- Private psychologist
- 3–6 months in Billings/Missoula/Bozeman; longer in rural areas
- Telehealth
- 4–8 weeks at regional telehealth-first practices
Getting on multiple waitlists simultaneously is strongly recommended. Telehealth and private-practice waits are often significantly shorter than academic medical centers.
Low-Cost & Free Evaluation Options in Montana
Montana State University — Psychology Clinic
Bozeman
Graduate-training clinic; availability varies by semester.
Shodair Children's Hospital
Helena
Accepts Medicaid; financial assistance available for qualifying families.
Child Development Centers (statewide network)
Regional CDCs across Montana provide service coordination and lower-cost evaluations or referrals.
Seattle Children's Autism Center (WA)
Seattle, WA (out of state)
Common out-of-state referral for Montana families; accepts some MT Medicaid via prior auth.
Related
Montana Medicaid coverage details
Full breakdown of HCBS waivers, ABA benefit rules, and the state insurance mandate.
Sources
These sources support the current pricing and coverage context for Montana. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.
Ready to find a provider?
Browse verified diagnostic centers in Montana with their fees, accepted insurance, and current wait times.
Find Diagnostic Centers in Montana