Eligibility

How do I apply to be a client of DDA?

Complete the required forms and documents. You can request a packet by calling 866-715-3646 or by returning the information listed below to . - Region 1 Headquarters 1611 W INDIANA AVE SPOKANE WA 99205-4221 Toll Free: 1-800-462-0624

  • Let DDA know if you need help completing the forms and locating documentation. 

Why should I apply for DDA?

DDA has many different services and programs including personal care, respite, employment, residential supports, and much more. 

Becoming a client earlier in life will help you transition during different stages of life. 

If your caregiver is not able to provide supports to you in the future, you will already be a client so the process will be easier and faster.

Will my DDA eligibility expire or need review?

Yes, it might. DDA will send you reminder notices if your eligibility is about to expire or be reviewed. 

Where can I find the rules for eligibility?

The criteria for determining eligibility is in Chapter 388-823 WAC- PDF

How does the state of Washington define developmental disability?

The state of Washington defines developmental disability in RCW 71A.10.020(5).

(1) To qualify for DDA you must have a diagnosed condition of intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, or another neurological or other condition found by DDA to be closely related to intellectual disability or requiring treatment similar to that required for individuals with intellectual disability which:

  • (a) Originates prior to age eighteen;

  • (b) Is expected to continue indefinitely; and

  • (c) Results in substantial limitations.

(2) In addition to the requirements listed in subsection (1) of this section, you must meet the other requirements contained in this chapter.

Where do people have the most problems?

The Arc of Tri-Cities has found that families do not understand that it takes 2 areas of documentation to prove your child has a disability.

  • 1st Area - Qualifying Diagnosis.

  • 2nd Area- Functional Assessment - shows the person is functioning below level (Vineland Test)

Adaptive Testing

What is the Vineland Test? The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Second Edition (Vineland-II) measures the personal and social skills of individuals from birth through adulthood.  Because adaptive behavior refers to an individual's typical performance of the day-to-day activities required for personal and social sufficiency, these scales assess what a person actually does, rather than what he or she is able to do. 

In order to determine the level of an individual's adaptive behavior, someone who is familiar with that individual, such as a parent or caregiver, is asked to describe his activities.  Those activities are then compared to those of other people the same age to determine which areas are average, above average, or in need of special help.

Learning about an individual's adaptive behavior helps us to gain a total picture of that individual.  When adaptive behavior information is combined with information about an individual's intelligence, school achievement, and physical health, plans can be made to address any special needs that person may have at home or in school.

There is a teacher version and a parent version.  The parent questionnaire can be processed either as an interview or a parent survey.  The parent version will address a wider variety of adaptive behaviors than the teacher version, which only addresses behaviors observed in the classroom.

The Vineland-II assesses adaptive behavior in four domains: Communication, Daily Living Skills, Socialization, and Motor Skills.  It also provides a composite score that summarizes the individual's performance across all four domains.

NOTE: When ABAS is done instead of Vineland it must be 70 or below

DDA website

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Benefits