Home & Community Based Services
Medicaid-funded supports that allow individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live, work, and thrive in their communities — not institutions.
Based ServicesMedicaid-funded. Community-centered. Person-directed.
What Are HCBS Waivers?
Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) are Medicaid-funded programs that provide supports and services to individuals with IDD in their homes and communities. Rather than requiring institutional placement, HCBS waivers allow people to receive the care they need while remaining part of their communities. Each state administers its own waiver programs, which means eligibility criteria, available services, and funding levels vary — and navigating the system can be complex. We help families and self-advocates understand their options, apply for waivers, and access the services they are entitled to.
Community Living
Supports that enable individuals to live in their own homes or family homes rather than group settings or institutions.
Person-Centered Planning
Services built around each individual's goals, preferences, and strengths — not a one-size-fits-all model.
Self-Direction
Many waiver programs allow individuals and families to direct their own services, choosing providers and managing budgets.
Lifespan Support
HCBS supports are available across the lifespan — from transition-age youth through older adults.
How We Support You
Navigating HCBS systems requires specialized knowledge. We bring that expertise directly to families and self-advocates.
Waiver Eligibility & Application
We guide families through the eligibility determination process, help gather required documentation, and support the application from start to finish — including appeals if needed.
Waitlist Navigation
Many states have long HCBS waitlists. We help families understand their position, explore interim options, and take proactive steps to move through the process.
Person-Centered Planning Support
We attend planning meetings, help articulate goals and preferences, and ensure the resulting plan reflects the individual's vision for their life — not just available service slots.
Service Coordination
We help families identify qualified providers, understand service agreements, and coordinate across multiple supports to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Self-Direction Guidance
For families interested in self-directing services, we explain the options, help set up fiscal intermediary relationships, and support the transition to a self-directed model.
Crisis & Transition Support
When circumstances change — a caregiver's health, a housing transition, aging out of school — we provide urgent guidance to stabilize supports and plan for what comes next.
Our Process
We meet you where you are and build a path forward together.
Free Initial Consultation
We start with a conversation to understand your situation, current supports, and goals. No paperwork, no pressure — just listening.
Landscape Assessment
We review your state's waiver programs, your current eligibility status, and any existing documentation to map out your options.
Action Plan Development
Together we build a clear, prioritized action plan — whether that means applying for a waiver, appealing a denial, or optimizing existing services.
Active Advocacy
We attend meetings, communicate with agencies, review service plans, and advocate on your behalf at every step of the process.
Ongoing Partnership
HCBS needs evolve over time. We remain available as a resource as your situation changes, services are renewed, or new needs emerge.
Who Is Eligible?
HCBS waiver eligibility varies by state, but most programs require that an individual meet both a disability-related criterion and a financial (Medicaid) criterion. Common eligibility factors include a diagnosis of intellectual disability, developmental disability, autism spectrum disorder, or a related condition; a demonstrated need for the level of care that would otherwise require institutional placement; and meeting state Medicaid income and asset requirements. Age of eligibility also varies — some programs serve individuals from birth, while others begin at age 18. Waitlists are common, and early application is strongly recommended.
Common Eligibility Factors
Diagnosis of IDD, autism, or related condition
Medicaid eligibility (income and asset criteria)
Demonstrated need for community-based supports
State-specific age and residency requirements
Level of care determination by the state agency
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Navigate HCBS Together?
Whether you are just starting to explore waiver options or are stuck in the middle of a complex process, we are here to help.