Getting started with DDA: application, documents and CCS
Start with the current Maryland DDA application instructions.
Read guide: Getting started with DDA: application, documents and CCSLoading...
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Resources
Practical reading for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, caregivers and the teams alongside them. Start with Maryland guidance, explore national topics or find the agency in your state.
These educational resources cover many locations. They do not describe Fusa’s service area, accepted funding or an individual’s eligibility. Confirm those details separately with the agency and the responsible program.
Original discussion aid
Prepare the person’s questions, communication preferences and priorities, then agree on clear next steps with the team.
Open meeting worksheetMaryland
DDA applications, person-centered planning and practical questions for Maryland support teams. Montgomery County is served by DDA’s Southern regional office.
Start with the current Maryland DDA application instructions.
Read guide: Getting started with DDA: application, documents and CCSMaryland describes person-centered planning as a process directed by the person, with a team they choose and support from their CCS.
Read guide: Make a person-centered planning meeting usefulSelf-direction offers people greater control over how authorized supports are arranged, alongside responsibilities associated with their service budget and employment arrangements.
Read guide: Self-direction: choice, support and responsibilitiesKeep one shared checklist of the documents and training the actual role requires.
Read guide: For paid support teams: use current manuals and formsCheck both Maryland’s general waiver information and its dated change notices.
Read guide: Reading waiver changes without confusing proposals and approvalsSchool services and adult developmental-disability services follow different processes.
Read guide: Transition from school: plan the adult-service questions earlyMaryland’s Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) program has a separate process, including random selection and eligibility review.
Read guide: LISS: check the current round before applyingDDA organizes Maryland into four regions.
Read guide: Find the right Maryland regional officeUnited States
Prepare for conversations about support, communication, respite and benefits. Each program makes its own eligibility and funding decisions.
Home and community-based services (HCBS) can help eligible people receive long-term supports in everyday community settings.
Read guide: Understanding home and community-based supportAsk the person how they prefer to communicate before choosing a format.
Read guide: Communication, choice and accessible appointmentsRespite provides a temporary break from caregiving and may be planned or needed in an emergency; the right arrangement should also respect the supported person’s preferences and routines.
Read guide: Planning respite before a caregiver is exhaustedSupplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal benefit with its own eligibility and reporting rules.
Read guide: SSI and disability services: separate applicationsUnited States
Outside Maryland? The national directory links to state developmental-disability agencies. Application routes and eligibility vary by state.
Choose your state in the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services directory. Ask the listed agency about current eligibility, applications and local support navigation.
Official state agency directory