Youth Empowerment Services (YES)

Youth Empowerment Services (YES) is a program that helps children and youth under the age of 18 who are identified as having serious emotional disturbance gain access to the mental health services they need. 

Who's Eligible
  • Children under the age of 18 years old
  • Have income under 300% Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
  • Complete an assessment that identifies a functional impairment.
  • Families above 300% will be able to access YES through a cost-sharing program. 
Youth Empowerment Services
Visit the YES website
Apply for YES

The application process for the YES Program has two steps. 

  1. Apply for Medicaid using the Medicaid application
  2. Complete a functional assessment through Liberty Healthcare
1. Apply for Medicaid
Apply Online
  • Apply: Online using idalink
  • Be prepared to provide this information with the application:
    • ID Card
    • Household Income
    • If applicable, Immigration Status
Apply Over the Phone or in Person
  • Be prepared to provide this information with the application:
    • ID Card
    • Household Income
    • If applicable, Immigration Status
Apply by Mail, Email, or Fax
  • Then Apply by either:
    •  Email: MyBenefits@dhw.idaho.gov
    •  Fax: 1-866-434-8278 (toll free)
    •  Mail: Self Reliance Programs, PO Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0026
  • Be prepared to provide this information with the application:
    • ID Card
    • Household Income
    • If applicable, Immigration Status
2. Complete a Functional Assessment

The functional assessment will determine if the child has a Serious Emotional Disturbance. A Serious Emotional Disturbance refers to people who have a mental, behavioral or emotional issue that limits their ability to participate in family, school, or community activities. A person is identified as having Serious Emotional Disturbance if they have both a qualifying diagnosable mental illness and a substantial functional impairment. 

To be assessed for Serious Emotional Disturbance, call Liberty Healthcare.

 Call: 1-877-305-3469

Once you have completed the application process, you will receive written notice in the mail regarding eligibility for the YES program.  If you have any questions about the application process, you may call 1-833-644-8296. 

Liberty Healthcare
Call to schedule a functional assessment
Call Liberty Healthcare
Monthly income limits for YES Program

Effective January 2022

Household Size Monthly Income
2 $4,578
3 $5,758
4 $6,938
5 $8,118
6 $9,298
7 $10,478
8 $11,658
Each additional member $1,180