A plain-language guide for families and Support Coordinators. Understanding the waiver system is often the hardest part of getting started. This page explains what a Developmental Disability Waiver is, how the three Virginia waivers differ, and where in-home support fits in.
A Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver is a Virginia Medicaid program. It funds the long-term supports that let a person with a developmental disability live at home rather than in an institution. The word "waiver" refers to the Medicaid rules set aside to pay for that community-based care.
Virginia operates three DD Waivers. They differ mainly in the level of support a person needs and the kind of setting they live in. Which one applies is decided through the Commonwealth's eligibility process, not by a service provider.
An individual is assigned to one waiver at a time, based on assessed need.
For adults aged 18 and over who are able to live independently in a home of their own with periodic support. The individual owns, leases or controls their own residence, and supports supplement that independence rather than replace it.
For individuals of any age who live with their family, in their own home, or in a small provider-operated setting. It supports people who need a moderate level of assistance, including help delivered in the home during the day and evening.
For individuals of any age whose needs call for the most comprehensive support, including 24-hour assistance. It covers the widest array of services, including residential options, alongside community-based supports.
CoreCare provides In-Home Support and Independent Living services. In practice that means a Direct Support Professional working alongside someone at home and in their community. The focus is daily routines, safety, community access, and the skills that build independence.
Which waiver funds those services depends on the individual's waiver assignment and their Individual Support Plan. Your Support Coordinator can confirm what a particular plan covers. That is part of their role. It is also the most reliable answer available, because it reflects that person's own authorization rather than general guidance.
A Support Coordinator — sometimes called a case manager — usually works from the local Community Services Board (CSB). They help an individual and their family build the Individual Support Plan, identify which services are needed, and connect with providers who can deliver them.
They stay involved after services begin, reviewing whether the plan still fits. If you already have a Support Coordinator, they are the right first call for almost any waiver question.
Families have the right to choose which approved provider delivers their services, and to change provider if the fit is not right. Talk to your Support Coordinator about adding in-home support to the plan, then contact the providers you want to consider.
See how a referral to CoreCare worksEligibility for a DD Waiver is determined by the Commonwealth, beginning with a screening through your local Community Services Board. CoreCare does not carry out eligibility determinations and cannot place anyone on a waiver, but the official resources below explain how the process works and where to begin.
Ask CoreCare a questionFor authoritative information on waiver eligibility, services and current policy, go directly to the Commonwealth:
This page is general educational information, not an eligibility determination or legal advice. Waiver rules change; always confirm current details with DBHDS, DMAS or your Support Coordinator.
We are happy to talk through what In-Home Support looks like in practice, whether or not you are ready to start services.
Contact CoreCare