✨ Why This Lesson Matters
DD Waivers can feel confusing at first, but they directly affect what supports an individual can receive in the community. As a DSP, you don’t determine eligibility, but you do support the individual with dignity, follow the service plan, and understand why certain services are approved or not.

✨ What Is a DD Waiver?
Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waivers are Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). They help eligible individuals receive long-term supports in the community rather than in an institutional setting. Virginia’s DD Waivers include the Community Living (CL), Family & Individual Supports (FIS), and Building Independence (BI) Waivers.

✨ The 3 DD Waivers (High-Level Overview)

Building Independence (BI): Typically supports adults working toward more independent living.


Family & Individual Supports (FIS): Supports individuals and families with needed community-based services.


Community Living (CL): Often includes broader/greater support needs and service options.

(Exact services and limits vary by waiver and the individual’s approved plan.) 

✨ Eligibility Basics (What Must Be Met)


Eligibility usually includes both:

  1. Required level-of-care determination (completed using the VIDES — Virginia Individual Developmental Disabilities Eligibility Survey), and it is done when services are first requested and annually after enrollment. 

  2. Medicaid financial eligibility (the person must meet Medicaid eligibility requirements for the DD Waivers). 

✨ Screening & Enrollment: What the Process Looks Like


While DSPs don’t complete the screening, you should understand the steps:

  • The person requests DD Waiver services and completes the eligibility process (including VIDES).

  • Many people are placed on the DD Waivers waiting list, which is maintained by DBHDS and updated at least annually. 

  • Once a slot is available and eligibility is confirmed, the person works with a support coordinator/case manager to review options and choices.

✨ What DSPs Should Remember

  • Waiver services should always be delivered in a way that supports choice, dignity, and person-centered support.

  • Follow the individual’s plan and respect consent before helping with personal items or personal care.

  • If something seems off (discomfort, refusal, new behavior), pause and communicate—then notify the appropriate supervisor/support coordinator as required.

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