Independence Waiver

If you are an adult with a severe physical disability, the Independence Waiver may be able to help you live or remain in the community.

To Be Eligible You Must:

• Be a Pennsylvania resident
• Be ages 18-60: A person that turns 60 while in the waiver will be able to get services through the Independence Waiver.
• Have a physical disability that limits three or more of the following major life activities:
       - Self-care
       - Understanding and use of language
       - Learning
       - Mobility
       - Self-direction and/or capacity for independent living
• Meet the financial requirements as determined by your local county assistance office.
  

• The following diagnosis and age requirements apply:
       - Individuals of any age with an intellectual disability (ID) or autism.
       - Children with a developmental disability under age 9 with a high probability of resulting in an ID or autism diagnosis.
       - Children under age 22 with a developmental disability due to a medically complex condition.
• Level of Care
       - Medical Evaluation
       - Diagnosis of an intellectual disability, autism or developmental disability
• Recommended for an intermediate care facility (ICF) level of care based on a medical evaluation
• Determined eligible for Medical Assistance (MA) in Pennsylvania
• Meet the financial requirements as determined by your local County Assistance Office
  

You Are Not Eligible If You:

• Have an intellectual disability
• Have a major mental disorder
• Reside in a nursing facility or the community but have been assessed to need services provided by a nursing facility