How much does an autism evaluation cost in Washington?

In Washington, a comprehensive private-pay autism evaluation typically costs $2,000–$5,000, with a typical price around $3,200.

Does Washington Medicaid cover evaluations?

Yes. Washington Medicaid covers autism evaluations ($0 copay) under EPSDT.

Back to National Cost Guide

Evaluation Cost Guide

Autism Evaluation Cost in Washington

Q: Does insurance cover autism evaluations in Washington?

$0–$1,500 depending on deductible. Washington's autism insurance mandate requires state-regulated plans to cover diagnosis and medically necessary treatment. Self-funded ERISA plans are exempt — confirm your plan type.

Washington private-pay autism evaluations typically cost $2,000–$5,000. Apple Health (Medicaid) covers evaluations fully for children under 21 via the ABA Program, and commercial plans must cover diagnosis under the state insurance mandate. DDA eligibility is the gateway to long-term HCBS waiver services.

Quick Answer

Private-pay range: $2,000-$5,000 (typical about $3,200).
Commercial insurance: $0–$1,500 depending on deductible.
Medicaid: covered with a typical copay of $0.

Private-pay (no insurance)

$2,000 – $5,000typical: ~$3,200

For a comprehensive pediatric evaluation (history, ADOS-2, cognitive testing, written report). Updated 2026-04-21.

Commercial Insurance

$0–$1,500 depending on deductible

Typical out-of-pocket

Washington's autism insurance mandate requires state-regulated plans to cover diagnosis and medically necessary treatment. Self-funded ERISA plans are exempt — confirm your plan type.

Medicaid

Typical copay

Apple Health covers evaluations under EPSDT through managed care plans. No annual dollar cap for medically-necessary services.

Wait Times

3–6 months

Private psychologist

Major center: 12–18 months (Seattle Children's Autism Center, UW Autism Center)

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: 12–18 months (Seattle Children's Autism Center, UW Autism Center)
Private psychologist: 3–6 months
Telehealth: 4–8 weeks (UW Autism Center has expanded telehealth for rural and underserved families)

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 Washington

UW Autism Center (Haring Center)

universitySliding scale

Seattle

University-affiliated diagnostic and early-intervention clinic with telehealth capacity.

Boyer Children's Clinic

nonprofitSliding scale

Seattle

Early intervention and developmental evaluations.

Mary Bridge Children's (MultiCare)

nonprofit

Tacoma

Accepts Medicaid.

Washington Autism Alliance

nonprofit

Statewide

Insurance-appeal and family navigation support — not direct evaluation.

Washington Medicaid coverage details

Full breakdown of HCBS waivers, ABA benefit rules, and the state insurance mandate.

View Medicaid →

Sources

These sources support the current pricing and coverage context for Washington. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.

Ready to find a provider?

Browse verified diagnostic centers in Washington with their fees, accepted insurance, and current wait times.

Find Diagnostic Centers in Washington