Using Step Up For Students (FES-UA) to Pay for ABA Therapy
Florida's Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) can be used for ABA therapy from an approved provider. Thrive accepts it. Here is how it works.
What FES-UA is
The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) is a Florida education savings account for students with eligible disabilities, created under section 1002.394 of the Florida Statutes and administered by Step Up For Students[1][2]. Families can use the funds for a range of approved education-related expenses.
Can FES-UA pay for ABA?
Yes. Applied behavior analysis is listed among the specialized services that scholarship funds can be used for when provided by an approved provider[2]. The statute ties the definition of ABA services to Florida's autism insurance law[1][3]. Thrive Behavioral Therapy accepts Step Up For Students FES-UA.
Who may be eligible
Eligibility is set by the state and includes students with certain disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder, who meet the program's age and documentation requirements. Step Up For Students reviews applications and confirms eligibility[2]. Check their site for current requirements and application windows.
How it works with Thrive
- Apply and get approved for FES-UA through Step Up For Students.
- Book a free consultation so we can learn about your child.
- We complete an assessment and recommend a plan and hours.
- Services are paid from your scholarship account following Step Up For Students' current purchasing rules.
FES-UA and insurance
Many families have both health insurance and a scholarship. Insurance often covers ABA for eligible children; scholarship funds may help with costs insurance does not cover or with services for children who do not have ABA coverage. Rules change from year to year, so always confirm with Step Up For Students before purchasing services. See insurance or call us and we will help you think it through.
References
- Florida Statutes s. 1002.394, The Family Empowerment Scholarship Program. https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2024/1002.394
- Step Up For Students. Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities. https://www.stepupforstudents.org/scholarships/unique-abilities/
- Florida Statutes s. 627.6686, Coverage for individuals with autism spectrum disorder required (Steven A. Geller Autism Coverage Act). https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2024/627.6686
Frequently asked questions
Please reach us at info@thrivebehavioraltherapy.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Does Thrive accept Step Up For Students?
Yes, Thrive accepts the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA).
Can I use FES-UA for in-home ABA?
Call us to discuss your situation. Step Up For Students' current purchasing guide determines what expenses are eligible, so we recommend confirming with them as well.
Can I use both insurance and FES-UA?
Many families have both. How they work together depends on your plan and the scholarship rules for the current school year. We can help you sort it out.