Intake and referrals

Start with one call. We’ll find the route with you.

To get IDD services in Washington, DC, a person applies to the Department on Disability Services (DDS) by calling 202-730-1700 or walking in to schedule an intake appointment. DDS decides eligibility and assesses needs, and then the person chooses a provider. Mercyland can help at any step, starting with one call.

Call intake202-525-1563

Email the intake team

Which sounds like you?

We already work with DDS

Tell us your DDS service coordinator’s name when you call or email, and we will take it from there with you.

What a service coordinator does

We’re just starting

Eligibility for Home and Community-Based Services in the District runs through the Department on Disability Services. We can point you to the right intake route at DDS and stay in touch while it is under way.

DDS: How to apply Our guide to the HCBS waiver

The DC waiver journey

The four steps DDS takes a family through, from our HCBS waiver guide.

A person may qualify if they

Have an intellectual or developmental disability
Need a level of support similar to what an institution would provide
Meet the standard Medicaid financial eligibility rules

1
Application
Call DDS at 202-730-1700 or walk in to schedule intake. Bring proof of DC residency, a birth certificate or ID, and proof of health insurance if you have it.
2
Eligibility
DDS determines eligibility from age, disability, financial need and functional need.
3
Needs assessment
An in-home visit, a financial coordination plan and your choice of provider. You can choose Mercyland here.
4
Services begin
Supports such as personal care, health care, support coordination and respite.

The IDD Waiver now has a waitlist, and the IFS Waiver continues without one when spots are available. What the waitlist means for you

Common questions from families