Financial Planning for Early Intervention of Children with Autism in India

Lovedeep Kholia
3 hours ago
3 min read

Three smiling children sit together in a bright room. One in a blue shirt faces forward, while the others engage in conversation.

Early intervention therapies — such as speech therapy and occupational therapy — can significantly improve developmental outcomes for children with autism. But these therapies are often long-term and costly, making financial planning essential for parents in India.

Why Financial Planning is Necessary for Autism Therapies

Therapies are ongoing: Children may need consistent therapy for several years.
Costs accumulate: Monthly therapy expenses can range from ₹30,000–₹80,000 depending on intensity.
Peace of mind: A structured plan ensures continuity of care without financial stress.

Government Schemes Supporting Families

1. Disability Certificate

Issued by government hospitals.
Autism is recognized under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Enables access to concessions in education, travel, and tax benefits.

2. National Trust Schemes

Niramaya Health Insurance: Affordable coverage for therapies and medical expenses.
DISHA Scheme: Early intervention and special education for children up to 10 years.
Samarth Scheme: Respite and residential care facilities.
Sahyogi Scheme: Caregiver training programs.
Gyan Prabha Scheme: Scholarships for higher education and vocational training.

3. Income Tax Benefits

Section 80DD: Tax deduction for expenses on medical treatment and rehabilitation of a dependent child with disability.
Section 80U: Deduction for individuals with disabilities themselves.

4. Educational Support

Inclusive Education under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA): Resource teachers and aids in mainstream schools.
Scholarships for Students with Disabilities: Financial assistance for school and college education.

5. Other Benefits

Travel Concessions: Discounts on railway and bus fares for children with disabilities and their escorts.
Reservation in Jobs & Higher Education: 4% reservation for persons with benchmark disabilities, including autism.

Financial Planning Strategies for Parents

1. Review Insurance Plans

Check if your health insurance covers therapies, OPD visits, or hospitalization.
Explore specialized plans like Niramaya for disability-related coverage.

2. Create a Savings Plan

Set aside a fixed monthly amount for therapy expenses.
Use Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) or Recurring Deposits to build a therapy fund.
Maintain an emergency fund for unexpected medical or therapy costs.

3. Plan for Long-Term Security

Consider Special Needs Trusts to safeguard your child’s financial future.
Invest in life insurance policies that ensure continuity of care if parents are not around.
Explore fixed deposits, mutual funds, and child education plans for long-term needs.

4. Budget for Education and Therapy

Track monthly therapy costs and balance private sessions with government-supported centres.
Plan for assistive devices, communication aids, and special schooling.

5. Seek Professional Guidance

Consult financial planners familiar with special needs families.
Connect with NGOs and parent support groups for practical advice on affordable therapy options.

Support from Unicare Speech and Hearing Clinic

At Unicare Speech and Hearing Clinic, we understand the financial challenges families face while ensuring their child receives the best care. We are always there to support families in their ongoing therapies.

We provide pocket-friendly therapy options without compromising on quality.
All our therapists are qualified professionals who have earned the trust of parents through consistent, compassionate care.
To make therapies more affordable and sustainable, we suggest therapy packages instead of per-session payment plans. This ensures continuity, quality, and cost-effectiveness for families.
Our goal is to make early intervention accessible, effective, and sustainable for every family.

A child with colorful handprints on a white shirt stands in a bright room with an adult. The shirt has an illustration and text. People in the background.

Conclusion

Financial planning for early intervention in autism is not just about managing expenses — it’s about ensuring continuity of care and investing in your child’s future. By leveraging government schemes, insurance coverage, structured savings, and long-term investments, parents in India can provide consistent therapies while safeguarding financial stability.