DDS Adult Eligibility

Individuals can be determined eligible for adult services through the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) if they have significant limitations in adaptive functioning and one or more of the following diagnoses:

» Intellectual Disability

» Autism Spectrum Disorder

» Prader-Willi Syndrome

» Smith-Magenis

In order to receive services at age 22 or later, adult eligibility must be completed, even if the individual has been determined eligible for children’s services. It is best to begin the adult eligibility process around age 18 in order to provide maximum planning time for adult services. Adult services do not begin prior to age 22.

When to Apply:

Around age 18.

Where to Get an Application:

ONLINE

Go to www.mass.gov/dds. Under “Related Links,” click on:

1. Application for Eligibility

2. Application for Eligibility Forms

3. Application Form for Adult Eligibility

Download the form, complete it, and mail it to your regional office. Cities and town pages are included with the application to help you identify your regional office.

BY PHONE

» Call your DDS regional office:

» Central West Region: 413-284-5045

» Metro Region: 781-314-7513

» Northeast Region: 978-774-5000, ext. 850

» Southeast Region: 508-866-5000

IN PERSON

» Visit any area office, family support center, or autism support center for assistance.

Criteria for DDS Eligibility Based on Intellectual Disability

» Must live in Massachusetts

» Must have a diagnosis of an intellectual disability (originates before 18)

» Must have significant limitations in adaptive functioning

What to submit for an application based on intellectual disability:

1. All available intelligence/cognitive/psychological testing reports

2. Early Intervention Plans

3. IEP and related assessments

4. Adaptive Behavior Assessment System (ABAS) or Vineland II

5. Individual Family Support Plan

6. 504 Accommodation Plan

7. Medical, developmental, and specialty assessments

8. Hospital reports (if applicable)

Criteria for DDS Eligibility Based on Autism Spectrum Disorder

» Must live in Massachusetts

» Must have a primary diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder determined by a qualified professional (manifests before 22)

» Must have significant limitations in adaptive functioning

WHAT TO SUBMIT FOR AN APPLICATION BASED ON AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER:

1. Autism Diagnostic Testing results:

   » Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS)

   » Gilliam Asperger’s Disorder Scale (GADS)

   » Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS)

   » Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)

2. All available intelligence/cognitive/psychological testing reports

3. Diagnostic reports of diagnosed developmental condition

4. Most recent IEP and related assessments

For All Applications, Submit:

Please submit copies only, do not submit original documents.

» Birth certificate

» Social Security card

» Health insurance card

» Guardianship decree (if applicable)

» Proof of domicile as necessary

All requested documentation may not apply to each individual.

Eligibility Determination

Once all the paperwork has been submitted, you will be contacted by an eligibility specialist to set up an intake interview. This is a face-to-face interview. The location will be determined by the eligibility specialist and the individual and family.

All the materials and information will be reviewed by the regional eligibility psychologist. The applicant or guardian will be notified in writing of the eligibility determination. There is an appeal process if the applicant is found to be ineligible.