# How does autism funding work in British Columbia?

> Current autism funding amounts, the new Children and Youth Disability Benefit, and what changes in 2026 and 2027.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/autism-funding-bc
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** BC's autism funding provides up to $22,000 a year for children under 6 and up to $6,000 a year for ages 6 to 18, used for approved services. The province is introducing a new Children and Youth Disability Benefit ($6,500 or $17,000 a year) over 2026 and 2027. Autism funding continues and accepts applications until March 2027. Check the BC government pages for the latest.

**Key takeaways**
- **Up to $22,000 a year** under 6; **up to $6,000 a year** ages 6 to 18.
- Autism funding **accepts applications until March 2027**.
- A new **Children and Youth Disability Benefit** is rolling out.
- Check **gov.bc.ca** for the latest details.

## How much is autism funding?

| Age | Up to per year |
| --- | --- |
| Under 6 | $22,000 |
| 6 to 18 | $6,000 |

Amounts are per child, per year, for approved services.[1]

## What's changing?

BC announced a new Children and Youth Disability Benefit of $6,500 or $17,000 a year, rolling out over 2026 and 2027. From July 2027, an income-tested Children and Youth Disability Supplement of up to $6,000 a year will also be available for children eligible for the federal Disability Tax Credit. Autism funding continues and accepts applications until March 2027.[1][2] Rules may change, so check the government pages before making plans.

**Start at home now.** You don't need to wait for funding to begin. Simple visual supports, like a picture schedule, can help your child with
  routines today.

## What should I do next?

**Try:**
- Applying for autism funding now
- Keeping receipts for approved services
- Watching for Disability Benefit updates

**Skip:**
- Assuming the old rules still apply
- Waiting to start supports at home

Free printable: [Free printable: visual starter pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/starter-pack.pdf)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] Check your child's funding status
- [ ] Read the Disability Benefit update
- [ ] Try a picture schedule at home

## Common questions

### Can I still apply for autism funding?

Yes. The BC government says autism funding continues and accepts applications until March 2027.

### What is the Children and Youth Disability Benefit?

A new benefit of $6,500 or $17,000 a year, depending on need, being introduced over 2026 and 2027.

### What can autism funding pay for?

Approved intervention services and some related costs. Check the government's list of eligible expenses.

## Sources

1. Government of British Columbia: Autism funding amounts. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/child-behaviour-development/support-needs/autism-spectrum-disorder/autism-funding/funding-amount
2. BC Gov News: Children and Youth Disability Benefit announcement (2026CFD0002-000136). https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026CFD0002-000136

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.