Common questions
Questions families ask us
Short answers about eligibility, DC’s waivers and starting services with Mercyland. Each answer links to a page that goes deeper. If your question is not here, call our intake team.
Eligibility and applying
Who is eligible for IDD services in DC?
A person may qualify if they have an intellectual or developmental disability, need a level of support similar to what an institution would provide, and meet the standard Medicaid financial rules.
DDS also asks for proof that the person lives in the District and that the disability began before age 22. DDS makes the eligibility decision, not Mercyland.
How do we apply?
You apply to the DC Department on Disability Services (DDS), not to Mercyland. Our guide describes the application through the DC Access System, with documents such as proof of residency and an IDD diagnosis.
DDS says you can call 202-730-1700 or walk in to schedule an intake appointment, and its intake staff help you complete the application. If you are not sure where to start, call us and we will point you to the right route.
What does it cost? Does Medicaid pay?
DC’s waivers use Medicaid funding to pay for services, which is why the person must meet DC’s Medicaid eligibility rules. The IFS Waiver usually has a yearly spending limit per person.
For questions about your own costs, call our intake team at 202-525-1563 or ask your DDS Service Coordinator.
Is there a waitlist? Is the IFS Waiver an option?
Since January 1, 2026, the IDD Waiver has a waitlist, ordered by Level of Need rather than by how long someone has waited. Being on it does not affect eligibility for other DDS services.
The Individual and Family Support (IFS) Waiver continues without a waitlist when spots are available. It is for people living with family or friends and does not cover housing.
How long does it take to start services?
We cannot promise a set timeline. It depends on DDS’s eligibility and assessment steps, on which waiver fits, and on whether a spot is open.
Call our intake team at 202-525-1563 and we will talk through where you are in the process.
Choosing Mercyland
Can we choose Mercyland as our provider?
Yes. Choosing a provider is part of the DDS process, after the needs assessment, and you can choose Mercyland then.
If the person already works with DDS, tell us your DDS Service Coordinator’s name when you call or email, and we will take it from there with you.
Do we need a DDS Service Coordinator? What do they do?
You do not have to find one. Once DDS finds a person eligible, DDS pairs them with a Service Coordinator.
The Service Coordinator leads the person’s yearly service plan (the ISP), checks on the supports being provided, and links the person to medical, social, vocational and other services. During a waitlist, they also help find community resources and recommend the waiver that fits best.
What happens when we first call?
Our intake team answers your questions about eligibility, the waiver, paperwork and what comes first.
If the person already works with DDS, have the Service Coordinator’s name ready. If you are just starting, we point you to the right intake route at DDS and stay in touch while it is under way.
Services and where we work
Which services can be remote?
Three of our services can be delivered remotely: In-Home Support, Behavioral Support Services and Health and Wellness. Respite Care (Hourly & Daily), Companion Services, Individualized Day Services (IDS), Host Home Services and Supported Living are in person.
For In-Home Support, whether it is delivered in person or remotely depends on the person’s preference and their team’s recommendations.
What areas do you serve?
We serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Washington, DC. Our office is in Northeast DC, at 1817 West Virginia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002.
DC’s waivers are for District residents: DDS asks for proof of District residency when you apply.
Referrals and reaching us
I’m a professional. How do I refer someone?
Call our intake team at 202-525-1563 or email raissa@mercylandhi.com or carla@mercylandhi.com. If the person has a DDS Service Coordinator, include their name.
Send us the referral and we will call you.
How do we reach you, and when are you open?
Call 202-525-1563 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM to 5:30 PM). For intake and referrals, email raissa@mercylandhi.com or carla@mercylandhi.com; for anything else, email info@mercylandhi.com.
Our office is at 1817 West Virginia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002.
Talk to a person
Questions about support? Our intake team answers the phone.
Eligibility, the waiver, paperwork, what happens first. Call and ask, or send a referral and we will call you.
202-525-1563Mon–Fri, 9 AM to 5:30 PMOr email info@mercylandhi.com