Eligibility

Visit the DDA’s website to download an application, have one mailed to you, or pick one up from your local regional DDA office. Either you or someone acting on your behalf can complete the DDA Application for Eligibility. You can also contact your regional DDA office for help.

Now is the time to gather all the information you think DDA needs to know to support you (or the person you are applying for) appropriately. You will want to gather copies of any relevant forms or evaluations, as well as any other information you think would be helpful. Some examples of formal evaluations that may be relevant are: current psychological or neuropsychological evaluation, medical evaluations (such as physical or occupational therapy, nutritional, and speech), Individualized Education Plan, and other important records.

After you submit your initial request for assistance or your application, a DDA representative will contact you to schedule an interview to complete a comprehensive assessment and review your information. The DDA typically assigns an independent case manager, referred to as a Coordinator of Community Services (CCS), to assist with the application process. Center for Community Services, Inc. (CCS) maintains a contract with DDA to provide Comprehensive Assessment services to people in Maryland. If TCS is assigned to help you with the application process, a team member specializing in intake and assessment will help you submit the application or application updates, supporting documentation, and information obtained during your Comprehensive Assessment to the DDA Regional Office.

The DDA Regional Office will assess all the information to determine whether the applicant meets either of the DDA eligibility categories – Developmentally Disabled or Supports Only. They will alsodetermine a priority category – Crisis Resolution, Crisis Prevention, Current Request, or that services are needed in the future. If needed they will consult with a subject matter expert. Eligibility for Developmental Disability:

• The individual possesses a physical or mental impairment, excluding solely mental illness, which may also be a combination of mental and physical impairments.
• The condition is likely to persist indefinitely.
• Onset occurred before the individual reached the age of 22.
• Assistance or support is required for independent living.
• The support of a team is necessary for managing services and treatment.

Eligibility for Support Only:

• The individual has a physical or mental impairment, excluding only mental illness, or it can be a combination of mental and physical impairments.
• The condition is likely to persist indefinitely.

Crisis Resolution: This category implies that the individual is currently facing a crisis or emergency, such as abuse, neglect, or homelessness. Coordinator of Community Services Role: If your priority category is identified as Crisis Resolution, your Center for Community Services (CCS) Coordinator will conduct monthly face-to-face meetings for the initial 90 calendar days. Subsequently, these meetings will occur quarterly. Your CCS will assist in developing an annual Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and facilitate connections to community resources for you and your family. Crisis Prevention: This category indicates that the person is at risk of or will likely encounter a health or safety crisis within the next year. Coordinator of Community Services Role: If your priority category is labeled Crisis Prevention, your CCS will conduct face-to-face meetings quarterly. Your CCS will collaborate with you in creating an annual Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and help establish connections with community resources. Current Request: This category is applicable when the person requires or desires services, with immediate health and safety concerns not being the primary focus. Coordinator of Community Services Role: If your priority category is identified as Current Request, your CCS will engage in annual face-to-face meetings. Your CCS will assist in the development of an annual Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and facilitate connections to community resources for you and your family. Future Needs: This category applies when the person does not anticipate needing services within the next three years. Procedure for Future Consideration: If your circumstances or needs change, and you believe your priority category should be re-evaluated, notify the DDA. You and your representative will receive a formal letter from the DDA outlining your eligibility and priority category determinations. This letter will provide information regarding the process for requesting reconsideration and your appeal rights.

Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) providers are a vital component of our commitment to create a flexible, person-centered, family-oriented system of support so people can have full lives. ​When you are eligible to begin services, you can choose a Coordination of Community Services provider, like the Center for Community Services, or DDA will assign one to you. Your Coordinator of Community Services will help you connect with resources and services in the community.