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Free speech evaluations, state by state
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The short answer
In every US state, children can be evaluated for speech difficulties at no cost under a federal law, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Under 3: contact your state’s early intervention program; you don’t need a doctor’s referral. 3 and older: ask your local public school district for an evaluation, ideally in writing. Find your state below.
Two routes, depending on age
- Birth to 3: early intervention. Each state runs its own program (it often has its own name). The evaluation is free to families. Find your state’s program in the table and use its referral page or phone number.
- Age 3 and up: your public school district. Call or write to the district’s special education office, even if your child isn’t enrolled there. Once you give consent, the evaluation must happen within 60 days or your state’s own timeframe.
More detail: how free speech evaluations work and what happens at one.
Sample letter to request a school evaluation
Copy this into an email or letter to your school district’s special education director, fill in the brackets, and keep a dated copy.
Find your state
Programs change names and web addresses. If a link doesn’t work, search for your state’s name plus “early intervention” or “special education”, or call your local school district. The “Free help for parents” column lists each state’s federally funded Parent Training and Information Center.
Questions parents ask
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No. For children under 3, the CDC says you don’t need a doctor’s referral or a diagnosis to contact your state’s early intervention program. From age 3, you can ask your local school district directly.
Does my child need to go to a public school?
No. Schools must find and evaluate children who may need help, including children too young for school. For children in private school, contact the district where the school is. Rules for homeschooled children vary by state.
How long does a school evaluation take?
Federal rules say it must be done within 60 days of your written consent, unless your state sets its own timeframe.
Does the request have to be in writing?
Federal law doesn’t require it, but a dated letter or email gives you a record of when you asked.
What if the school says my child doesn’t qualify?
Ask the school to explain its decision in writing. Your state’s Parent Training and Information Center, listed in the table, can help you understand your options, and you can still see a private speech-language pathologist.
Sources
- CDC Learn the Signs. Act Early.: Concerned about your child’s development?
- IDEA regulations, 34 CFR 300.301: Initial evaluations.
- IDEA regulations, 34 CFR 303.521: System of payments and fees (early intervention).
- Center for Parent Information and Resources: Evaluating school-aged children for disability.
- ECTA Center: Part C (early intervention) state contacts.
- Center for Parent Information and Resources: Find your parent center.