Complete guide to OAP funding amounts, from $6,600 to $65,000 per year based on needs assessment. Learn what OAP covers and the funding gap families face.
Source: FOI-MCSS-2025-12-10 & FAO Analysis
$6,600
Min Funding
$65,000
Max Funding
Gap
Funding vs. Therapy Costs
$80K+
Annual Gap
OAP Funding Levels (2026)
Level
Annual Funding
Description
Level 1
$6,600/year
Lower intensity needs
Level 2
$12,000/year
Low-moderate needs
Level 3
$24,000/year
Moderate needs (most common)
Level 4
$40,000/year
High needs
Level 5
$65,000/year
Highest intensity needs
*Funding levels are determined by a needs assessment that evaluates your child's severity of need and intensity of services required.
The Funding Gap
The reality of autism therapy costs in Ontario:
Actual therapy costs$60,000 - $95,000/year
OAP funding (max)$65,000/year
Gap families must cover$15,000 - $85,000/year
What OAP Funding Covers
Covered Services
ABA Therapy (Applied Behaviour Analysis)
Occupational Therapy
Speech-Language Therapy
Clinical Supervision
Behavioural Plan Development
Not Covered (Usually)
Respite Care
Academic Tutoring
Sensory Equipment
Communication Devices
Non-OAP Approved Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding will my child receive from OAP?
OAP funding amounts vary based on your child's needs assessment results. Core Clinical Services funding ranges from approximately $6,600 to $65,000 per year, with the average around $34,000 annually (FAO 2024). However, intensive ABA therapy typically costs $60,000-$95,000 per year, leaving a significant gap for most families.
What are the OAP funding levels for 2026?
As of 2026, OAP Core Clinical Services funding is needs-based with five levels: Level 1 ($6,600/year), Level 2 ($12,000/year), Level 3 ($24,000/year), Level 4 ($40,000/year), and Level 5 ($65,000/year). Your child's level is determined by a needs assessment that evaluates intensity of services required.
How is OAP funding amount determined?
OAP funding amounts are determined through a needs assessment process conducted by an independent clinical reviewer. The assessment evaluates your child's severity of need, intensity of services required, and existing supports. Children with higher needs and requiring more intensive services receive higher funding levels.
Does OAP funding cover the full cost of autism therapy?
No. OAP funding ($6,600-$65,000/year) falls far short of intensive ABA therapy costs ($60,000-$95,000/year). Even at the maximum funding level, families face a significant gap. Most families must supplement through private insurance, out-of-pocket expenses, or wait for services due to cost barriers.
What can OAP funding be spent on?
OAP Core Clinical Services funding can be spent on evidence-based behavioural services (primarily ABA therapy), occupational therapy, speech therapy, and clinical supervision. Funds must be used with OAP-approved service providers. Funding cannot be used for respite care, tutoring, or non-clinical supports unless specifically approved.
How often is OAP funding renewed?
OAP Core Clinical Services funding is typically renewed annually based on your child's continuing needs and the availability of funding. Families must submit annual documentation demonstrating progress and ongoing service requirements. The needs assessment may be repeated periodically to adjust funding levels.
What is the funding gap between OAP and actual therapy costs?
The funding gap is substantial. While OAP provides up to $65,000/year for Level 5 (highest needs), intensive ABA therapy costs $60,000-$95,000 annually. This leaves families with a gap of $15,000-$85,000 per year. Even at average funding levels of $20,000-$30,000, families face a gap of $50,000-$130,000 annually.
Can I use OAP funding for private autism therapy?
Yes, OAP funding can be used with private service providers who are approved by the OAP. You must select an OAP-approved provider from the ministry's list. The provider bills OAP directly for eligible services. You cannot use OAP funding to pay for unapproved providers or services outside the OAP framework.
Does family income affect OAP funding amounts?
No. OAP Core Clinical Services funding is needs-based, not income-based. Funding is determined solely by your child's clinical needs and the intensity of services required. However, interim funding (Childhood Budget) for families waiting for core services is income-tested, with higher-income families receiving reduced amounts.
What happens if my child's needs change over time?
If your child's needs change significantly, you can request a reassessment. This may result in increased funding if needs have intensified, or decreased funding if needs have reduced. Reassessments are not automatic—families must initiate the process and provide documentation supporting the change in needs.
FOI-MCSS-2025-12-10: Freedom of Information request to Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services — OAP funding levels and disbursement data
Financial Accountability Office (FAO): MCCSS Spending Plan Review (March 2024) — OAP funding analysis and service capacity constraints
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is independently verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: February 1, 2026.