Autism Care Therapy and ACT
Autism Care Therapy offers in-home and center-based behavioral therapy services, including ABA, speech, and occupational therapies, to individuals with developmental disabilities. Known for providing licensed provider support, this franchise operates under the 'Autism Care Therapy' and 'ACT®' service marks in the special needs care industry.
Autism Care Therapy and ACT franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment to begin operation of an ACT franchise ranges from $350,996 to $754,076. This includes a payment ranging from $68,000 to $71,000 to the franchisor or affiliate [p.1].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is $65,000 when you sign the standard Franchise Agreement. For Area Development Agreements, the initial franchise fee varies based on the number of businesses committed to develop, ranging from $65,000 per business for 2 businesses up to $45,000 per business for more than 5 businesses under a commitment of 10 or fewer businesses. [p.13, p.24]
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The franchisee is required to spend at least $1,500 per calendar month on approved local advertising and marketing activities for their Franchised Business [p.40, p.26, p.19, p.132]. This expenditure does not include indirect costs such as salaries and benefits of employees or compensation paid to marketing agencies, nor does it include costs for paid media advertising using keyword strategy or pay-per-click tactics [p.40]. Additionally, the franchisee must contribute to the Brand Fund in addition to this local advertising requirement [p.38].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The duration of the initial franchise agreement isn't specified in the excerpts. Regarding renewal, Franchisee acknowledges that the right of renewal does not give them the right to renew any specific provisions of the Agreement, and terms upon renewal are likely to be different from those offered at the date of the current Agreement [p.126]. Additionally, failure to meet conditions set by the franchisor for renewal may be deemed as an election not to renew the franchise [p.126].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
Yes, you can sell or transfer your franchise. If you sell or transfer a majority or controlling interest in the franchised business or entity owning the franchise, you must pay a Transfer Fee as specified [p.21]. For a non-majority and non-controlling interest, a $1,000 Transfer Fee is required [p.21].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement on any grounds available by law [p.75]. Additionally, if the franchise agreement expires and the franchisee continues to operate without a new agreement, the franchisor may deem the agreement to have expired or continue under an Interim Period until terminated [p.126]. Good cause for termination includes failure to comply with lawful provisions of the franchise agreement and not curing such failures within a reasonable time [p.5].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
You do not receive an exclusive territory. However, you are granted a Protected Area around your franchise location, typically a 1-mile radius, where you have the right to operate without competition from other ACT franchises. This area is generally within the Development Territory specified in your Area Development Agreement [p.42-43].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides an initial training program that includes classroom training or online methods, as well as on-the-job training at one of their businesses. This initial training is mandatory for the franchisee, director, manager, and BCBA, and must be completed satisfactorily before commencing operations [p.36]. Ongoing support includes up to five days per year of refresher training, which can be provided virtually or on-site, with associated fees that must be paid in advance [p.135-136]. Failure to complete the initial training program could result in termination of the franchise agreement and no refund of fees [p.35].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, there were 8 franchised ACT businesses in the system. None of these franchised ACT businesses permanently closed during that year [p.55].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
Yes, the franchisor may share financial performance or earnings information under certain conditions. According to [p.60], if a prospective franchisee receives other financial performance information or projections of future income, they should report it to the franchisor's management and also inform relevant regulatory bodies. Additionally, [p.143] states that the franchisor has the right to share financial information with other franchisees and may include Franchisee's financial information in their disclosure document, though this is kept confidential unless required by law or a legal proceeding.
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are required to offer and sell only the products and services approved by the franchisor, which generally include in-home and in-center behavioral therapy services such as ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and parental and school training. You cannot operate other businesses from your Franchised Business. Regarding supplies, you may have to buy or lease items from the franchisor or a limited group of suppliers designated by them, which might be more expensive than alternatives [p.3].