About AAC Guide

Our Mission

AAC Guide exists because navigating disability benefits should not require a law degree. Every year, millions of families struggle to understand Medicaid waivers, insurance mandates, IEP rights, and the dozens of federal and state programs that exist to support people with disabilities. The information is scattered across government websites, buried in legal jargon, and changes constantly.

We translate complex disability policy into clear, actionable guidance. Our goal is to ensure that every family knows what programs they are eligible for, how to apply, and what to do when they are denied. No family should lose benefits because they did not know they existed or could not navigate the paperwork.

Our Data Sources

The information in AAC Guide is compiled from authoritative public sources, including:

• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) policy guidance and state plan amendments
• Social Security Administration rules, regulations, and Program Operations Manual System (POMS)
• U.S. Department of Education IDEA regulations and Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) guidance
• State Medicaid agency waiver applications and amendments filed with CMS
• State insurance department mandate databases and compliance bulletins
• Published case law from federal and state courts on disability rights
• National Council on Disability reports and recommendations
• Kaiser Family Foundation Medicaid data and policy analysis

We update our guides regularly as policies change. State-specific information is reviewed at least quarterly.

Who We Are

AAC Guide is built by AI Venture Holdings (AIVH), founded by a team that experienced the disability benefits maze firsthand. After spending months navigating waiting lists, denied claims, and conflicting information across dozens of government websites, we decided to build the tool we wished existed.

Our team combines expertise in AI-assisted research, policy analysis, and product design. We use automated pipelines to monitor policy changes across all 50 states and keep our guides current. Every state profile is reviewed quarterly against primary government sources.

How We Grade States

Our state grades (A+ through D) are based on a weighted scoring model that evaluates five key factors:

• Waiting list length — How long families wait for waiver services (0-120+ months)
• Self-determination options — Whether individuals can direct their own services and budgets
• Per-enrollee spending — Annual Medicaid HCBS expenditure per person served
• Insurance mandate strength — State-required coverage for autism therapy, behavioral health, and related services
• Program breadth — Number and variety of waiver programs, employment support, and transition services

Scores are normalized to a 100-point scale and converted to letter grades. Data is sourced from CMS, KFF, state Medicaid agencies, and insurance department filings. Grades are updated quarterly.

Important Disclaimer

AAC Guide provides general information about disability benefits and services. This information is not legal advice, medical advice, or a substitute for consultation with qualified professionals. Laws and policies vary by state and change frequently. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that all information is current or applies to your specific situation.

Always verify information with the relevant government agency or consult with a disability rights attorney or advocate before making decisions that affect your benefits. If you need legal assistance, contact your state's Protection and Advocacy organization for free help.