Why Applying for Eligibility to the Developmental Disabilities Community Services is a Good Idea

There’s a good chance you’ve heard lots of reasons for enrolling with the Developmental Disabilities Community Services (formerly known as DDA)… support and services for you and your family, engaging with your community, and learning new skills to help build the life you want. But did you know there are additional benefits even when you do not want a support service right now?

Even if you don’t receive a paid service the following benefits come with being DDA eligible.
- The Developmental Disabilities Endowment Trust Fund. This is a trust that allows saving for the future without jeopardizing government benefits.
- Reduced fees through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
- Discounted passes with Washington State Park.
- Additional affordable housing options
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Eligibility puts you a step ahead in the event there’s a future need for services.
Documenting unmet needs helps everyone. When you are enrolled with DDCS, and then request a service, but funding is not currently available, you provide data that gives the state a true picture of the numbers of eligible people with unmet needs.

How Do Waiver Waiting Lists Work?

Funding for new enrollments in waiver programs depends on the legislature, which means there could be a wait, which can be frustrating; however, for all the reasons we’ve shared, it’s important to enroll with DDCS and request the services you or your family member needs.

Depending on the type of service you request, openings on DDCS Home and Community-Based Waivers are filled according to the level of need and or date of request. Individuals who request a waiver service are placed on a Waiver Enrollment Database which is reviewed on a weekly basis.