Home and Community-Based Services (HCS)

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What's Included in the HCS Program
Requirements to Receive HCS
Three Top Tips for Waiver Lists

The HCS program provides services and supports to people with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live with their families, in their own homes, or in small group homes with no more than 4 beds.

A related condition is a disability, other than an ID or mental illness, that begins before age 22 and will not likely end. This condition must also cause major functional limitations, similar to an individual with an ID. Autism and other developmental disabilities such as cerebral palsy, seizure disorders, and spina bifida are examples of related conditions.

This waiver is an alternative to receiving services in an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID).

What's Included in the HCS Program

The HCS program includes: residential services, adaptive aids, day habilitation (help with development of basic life skills), minor home modifications, nursing, respite, professional therapies, supported employment, and other services.

HCS also offers people the choice to self-direct some services. This means anybody enrolled in the program can have control over how some of their services are delivered and managed.

Requirements to Receive HCS

No age limit to receive services.
Must be able to get Medicaid services before enrolling in the program.
Must have an ID under state law or a diagnosis of a related condition with an IQ of 75 or below.
Income and assets may not be more than specified limits: a monthly income of up to 300% of the monthly income limit for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and no more than $2,000 in assets. This refers to your child’s income, not the family income.
Cannot be enrolled in another waiver program. Your child can remain on other waiver interest lists while enrolled in the HCS waiver program.

Compare the waiver programs and the services they offer, including HCS.

Three Top Tips for Waiver Lists

Don’t Delay, Add Your Child Right Away: Consider adding your child to as many waiver interest lists as possible when your child is first diagnosed with a disability or special health care needs. You should also think about adding your child to the lists even if they aren’t diagnosed but you have reason to believe that your child will have a long-term disability or special health care needs.
Learn More: If you are interested in HCS, call 1-855-937-2372 to speak to a trained professional.
Update Your Information Every Year: At least 1 time a year, call to update your contact information so they know how to reach you. Most parents remember by calling around their child’s birthday.