Home and Community Based Waivers

 

We have five waiver programs for people enrolled in DDCS. Waivers help people live in the community instead of an institution. Each waiver has its own menu of services and eligibility.

HCB Waiver Services

Watch our Waiver Services video series to learn about specific waiver services.

To learn more, click on a link below for English language brochures, or visit our brochure page for publications in multiple languages.

If you would like to ask for waiver services, you can:

  1. Fill out our online Services and Information Request form;
  2. Contact your DDCS Case Resource Manager directly; or
  3. Visit a DDCS office near you.

Waiver Redesign Project

In 2024, state lawmakers asked us to look at ways to make our waiver programs easier to understand. We asked people who use services, their families, DDCS staff, and community partners for their ideas. We received more than 1,800 comments. Their feedback led us to look at:

  • Moving from five waivers to two.
  • Making service options similar across both waivers.

Current Approved Waivers

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services must approve any changes to our waivers. In 2023, CMS approved five HCBS Waiver Appendix K applications. Appendix K provides the state flexibility in existing waiver programs. Click on a link below to read the applications:

Summary of Changes (Effective January 1, 2025)

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  • Added Foster Care group to waiver eligibility.
  • Updated the Supports Intensity Scale-A with a second edition.
  • Changed the name of Specialized Habilitation to Life Skills. This includes the stabilization version of this service.
  • Added point-in-time capacity to Basic Plus waiver from 13,000 to 13,400 participants for waiver years 3-5.
  • Removed the bachelor’s degree requirement for Case Resource Managers and Social Services Specialists. This change was required under SHB 2216.
  • Added University of Washington as a contracted entity to administer the in-person National Core Indicator® Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities survey.
  • Removed the prohibition of bus passes to transportation service definition and limitations. And added taxis and public transit as service providers.

Resources