Apply for Low Intensity Support Services by July 31!
The Developmental Disabilities Administration, part of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, will begin accepting requests for its Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) program beginning July 1. They will accept applications through July 30.
What is LISS?
LISS now provides up to $2,000 to assist adults with developmental disabilities and families of children with developmental disabilities. The funds may be used to pay for services or items that address the individual's unique needs related to their disability.
Who can apply for LISS?
To apply for LISS, you need to be:
- A Maryland resident - you will be asked to show proof of residency, such as a utility bill, or valid state photo ID.
- A person with a developmental disability - you will be asked to show proof of a developmental disability. The DDA will accept documentation such as an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a report completed by a licensed professional.
- A legal U.S. resident - you will be asked to send in a copy of your Social Security card.
- Not currently enrolled in any Maryland Medicaid home and community-based services waiver or the Rare and Expensive Case Management program.
- Not currently receiving DDA services, unless you are only receiving resource coordination.
- If you are over 18, you must be able to show that you applied for Medical Assistance within the past 12 months.
Have questions about eligibility? They requirements are more fully explained in the DDA's LISS Operations Manual.
What can LISS funds be used for?
LISS can be used to fund items and services that support an individual's needs that relate to their disability. For instance, funds can be used for:
- Adaptive equipment, appliances, furniture, or clothing
- Assistive technology
- Camps, conferences
- Health services or health insurance co-pays and deductibles
- Housing and vehicle adaptations
- Personal care
- Recreation equipment or memberships
- Respite and therapeutic care
And more! Check out DDA's LISS Operations Manual and LISS FAQ sheet to learn more about what is and is not covered by LISS.
What is the application process for LISS?
LISS recently changed its application process. There are now two month-long application periods (July 1-July 31 and January 1-January 31). Funding will be awarded through a random selection process at the end of each application period (not first-come, first-served). If you do NOT receive funding in the first round, you are invited to apply again for the second application period (January). So, if you don't get selected for one round, save a copy of your application to submit in the next round!
To apply, visit the DDA LISS website.
Need help with your application? DDA is hosting application help sessions throughout July. Click here to see the list of times and locations for these help sessions.
Have more questions?
Visit the DDA LISS page.
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