The Katie Beckett Medicaid program is a lifeline for families in Georgia seeking financial support for essential medical and therapy services, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, for children with autism or other disabilities. This guide explains the benefits of the program and provides a step-by-step process for applying.

What is the Katie Beckett Medicaid Program?

The Katie Beckett Medicaid program is a lifeline for families in Georgia seeking financial support for essential medical and therapy services, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, for children with autism or other disabilities. This guide explains the benefits of the program and provides a step-by-step process for applying.


Benefits of the Katie Beckett Medicaid Program

Families approved for the Katie Beckett Medicaid program gain access to a variety of benefits, including:

  • Therapy Coverage: Funding for ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and other essential services.
  • No Co-pays or Deductibles: Removes the financial burden of co-pays and deductibles associated with private insurance.
  • Premium Assistance: In some cases, the state covers the family's private insurance premiums.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Katie Beckett Medicaid program in Georgia, a child must meet the following criteria:

  • Residency: Must be a Georgia resident.
  • Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or meet specific immigration requirements.
  • Medical Necessity: Must have a significant physical or mental disability that requires medical care in a home setting, equivalent to the level of care provided in a hospital or skilled nursing facility.
  • Parental Income: Parental income is not considered for eligibility.

Additional Autism Funding Options in Georgia

While the Katie Beckett program is a significant resource, families may also explore:

  • Parent to Parent of Georgia
  • PeachCare for Kids

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for the Katie Beckett Medicaid program:

1. Download  the Application:

  • Applications can be requested by calling the Centralized Katie Beckett Medicaid Team at 678-248-7449or by visiting the Georgia Gateway website at www.gateway.ga.gov.
  • Download the updated application forms:

Katie Beckett Application (English)

Katie Beckett Application (Spanish)


2. Gather Supporting Documentation:

  • Collect all necessary medical records and evaluations from licensed professionals that demonstrate the child’s level of care needs.
  • Include a recent developmental evaluation to support the application.


3. Submit the Application:

  • Submit the completed application and supporting documentation to the Centralized Katie Beckett Medicaid Team at:

Physical Address:

Katie Beckett Medicaid Team

2211 Beaver Ruin Road, Suite 150

Norcross, GA 30091

Phone: 678-248-7449

Fax: 678-248-7459


4. Await Notification:

The team will review the application and notify you of the eligibility determination.


5. Follow-Up:

Contact the Katie Beckett Medicaid Team to address any questions or provide additional documentation if required.

Renewal Process for the Katie Beckett Program

Once approved, families must renew their child’s Katie Beckett coverage periodically to maintain benefits. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Renewal Timeline:

All medical level-of-care determinations are now authorized for a minimum of two years.

This reduces the frequency of renewals but does not eliminate the need for periodic updates.

  • Documentation Required:

Families must submit updated records, including:

Medical evaluations detailing the child’s ongoing needs.

Proof of income and residency, if applicable.


  • Why It’s Important:

Renewal ensures continuous access to services like ABA therapy, speech therapy, and other critical supports.


The Katie Beckett Medicaid program opens the door to critical therapies, including ABA therapy, for children with autism or disabilities. By following this guide, families can navigate the application process and access the financial support needed to provide essential care for their children.


For more information or assistance, contact us, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

Click here to talk with
a Care Specialist