Rhode Island currently has only one Medicaid program for children, which is a Katie Beckett (TEFRA) program that waives parental income. Once children gain eligibility to Medicaid through the Katie Beckett TEFRA program or standard criteria, they may access home and community based services through a Medicaid replacement program that is an 1115 demonstration waiver. See this page on general information for children with special needs in Rhode Island.

Advocacy Organizations in Rhode Island:

Last updated 6/16/2026

Programs in Rhode Island

  • Target Population: Children who would otherwise require care in an institution with any type of disability, including medical, developmental, intellectual, or psychiatric conditions.
  • Ages: 0-18
  • Levels of Care: Intermediate Care Facility, Nursing Facility, Hospital
  • Income Waiver: Yes, the program is based on the child’s income only. Parent income is not counted.
  • Program Type: TEFRA
  • Spots: unlimited
  • Expiration Date: NA
  • Description: Provides Medicaid coverage only. Once in the program, children may access comprehensive home and community based services through RI’s Medicaid program.
  • Online State Information: Katie Beckett Program
  • How to Apply: For information, call a Parent Consultant at (401) 574-8474. Fill out the entire packet of information on the website.
  • Waiting List: none
  • Target Population: All adults and children; provides additional services for children with disabilities or chronic conditions.
  • Ages: all ages
  • Levels of Care: Intermediate Care Facility, Nursing Facility, Hospital
  • Income Waiver: Yes, the waiver is based on the child’s income only via access through the Katie Beckett (TEFRA) program.
  • Waiver Type: 1115
  • Spots: unlimited
  • Expiration Date: 12/31/2030
  • Description: Replacement program for Rhode Island’s Medicaid program. Includes home and community based services as possible benefits, including but not limited to personal care services, home based therapeutic services, ABA, therapies, and respite. Programs include Kids Connect (daycare program), Personal Assistance Services and Supports (PASS), Home Based Therapeutic Services (HBTS), Home Nursing, and Respite.
  • Online State Information: Children with Special Needs
  • Official Federal Information
  • How to Apply: Apply online or through the Katie Beckett program.
  • Waiting List: none

Additional Information

No information for this state at this time