Eligibility
Within the State of Washington the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) determines eligibility for services. A determination of eligibility is a determination that a person meets the definition of a developmental disability as defined by State law. An individual must meet the eligibility definition to become a DDA client.
Under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 71A.10.020 the definition in law of a developmental disability is a disability attributed to:
Developmental Disability as Defined by Law
Under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 71A.10.020 the definition in law of a developmental disability is a disability attributed to:
- Autism
- Cerebral Palsy
- Epilepsy
- Intellectual disability
Another neurological or other condition closely related to intellectual disability or that requires treatment similar to that required for individuals with intellectual disabilities:
The application, additional information and forms will be mailed to you for completion and/or signature. You will be asked to provide any available school or medical records or sources of information that will assist in determining eligibility. Copies of other documents may be required. Upon request, DDA staff can assist you with completing the application. Please be aware that eligibility cannot be determined until DDA receives your signed application and all of the necessary information.
- The condition originates before the individual reaches the age of 18
- The condition is expected to continue indefinitely
- The condition results in substantial limitations to an individual's intellectual and/or adaptive functioning
How to Apply
To apply for a determination of DDA eligibility, visit the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services website where you will find detailed instructions and the forms you need in the Eligibility Application Packet. Or, you can contact your local DDA office at 800-248-0949 and ask for an application. If you call for an application, some information will be taken over the phone.The application, additional information and forms will be mailed to you for completion and/or signature. You will be asked to provide any available school or medical records or sources of information that will assist in determining eligibility. Copies of other documents may be required. Upon request, DDA staff can assist you with completing the application. Please be aware that eligibility cannot be determined until DDA receives your signed application and all of the necessary information.
Children - Birth to 3 Services
For accessing Birth to 3 Services in Jefferson County, please see the Birth to 3 Services page on this website.Eligible Conditions Specific to Age (WAC388-823-0800)
| Eligible Conditions | 0-5 Years Old |
6-9 Years Old |
10-17 Years Old | 18 Plus Years Old |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autism |
No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Another Neurological Condition |
No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cerebral Palsy |
No | Yes |
Yes | Yes |
| Developmental Delays |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
| Down Syndrome |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
| Epilepsy |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Intellectual Disability (ID) |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Medically Intensive Children's Program |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
| Other Condition Similar to ID |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Too Severe to be Assessed |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |