How much does 40 hours of ABA cost?

40 hours of ABA a week costs about $2,990 in technician time alone, by our estimate, at TRICARE’s 2026 Colorado maximum of $18.67 per 15 minutes. Over 52 weeks that comes to roughly $155,000, before any BCBA hours.

That is the most one public plan pays. Other insurers and private-pay rates differ, and families with coverage usually pay only their deductible, copay or coinsurance. Many plans call for fewer hours anyway. Practice guidelines put comprehensive ABA at 30 to 40 hours of one-on-one work. Health First Colorado no longer covers 40 hours a week of clinic services for a child who can attend school, unless the district shows the child can’t be served in class. Ask why a provider recommends a number before you agree.