Medicaid Waivers, sometimes called Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), allow Medicaid to fund supports and services for people with disabilities in their homes and/or the community.

Indiana offers four HCBS programs that target specific groups.  They include the Community Integration and Habilitation Waiver, Family Supports Waiver, Aged and Disabled Waiver and Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver.

HCBS Waivers can provide a variety of services including respite, participant assistance and care, behavior management, family and caregiver training, music therapy and recreation therapy.

How Do I Know Which One I Need

Most families utilize the Family Supports Waiver (FSW) or Community Integration and Habilitation Waiver (CIH).  To qualify, a person must have an intellectual or developmental disability, or a related condition, that was diagnosed before age 22 that is expected to continue indefinitely.

In addition, individuals must have substantial functional limitations in at least three of the following six categories:

• Mobility

• Learning

• Use and Understanding of Language

• Self-Direction

• Self-Care

• Capacity for Independent Living

There is also a financial component. The income and resources of an adult or child (under 18) receiving waiver services ARE considered in determining financial eligibility. Parental income and resources for children under 18 are NOT considered unless they are seeking Medicaid coverage prior to having a waiver.

The Family Supports Waiver has a capped annual budget for services of $17,300. The annual budget available under the CIH Waiver is based upon factors such as the individual’s level of need and living situation.