Resources for Home and Community-Based Services

Disabilities Assistance

Developmental Disabilities

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DDD Publications and Videos

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Home and Community-Based Services Waiver Information

Application - Complete and submit to apply for Medicaid HCBS waver services. Can be used to apply for any or all HCBS waivers.
iServe Application Tip Sheet
HCBS Waiver Information - one-page fact sheets

HCBS Waivers Available for Eligible People includes a chart of services by waiver.
HCBS Waivers to Meet Needs looks at waivers available based on needs.
Empowering Your Growth - Receiving services based on age and needs.
Aged and Disabled Waiver Info Sheet - A one-page overview of AD Waiver services and requirements.
Comprehensive Developmental Disabilities Waiver Info Sheet - A one-page overview of CDD Waiver services and requirements.
Developmental Disabilities Adult Day Waiver Info Sheet - A one-page overview of DDAD Waiver services and requirements.
Family Support Waiver Info Sheet – A one-page flyer listing FSW services and eligibility requirements.
Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver Info Sheet - A one-page overview of TBI Waiver services and requirements.

Katie Beckett Program Info Sheet - A one-page overview of the Katie Beckett program, which provides Medicaid to children with high needs.

Katie Beckett Frequently Asked Questions.

Olmstead Fact Sheet - General information about what Olmstead is and how it affects Nebraskans.
Person-Centered Planning - Planning your own services with Charting the LifeCourse.
What do I Need to Know about Medicaid? - What applicants and participants need to know about Medicaid.

Aged and Disabled (AD) Waiver

AD Assessment - The process used to assess needs and determine AD services.
AD Eligibility - Eligibility requirements and how to apply.
AD Quick Guide - Brief descriptions of AD Waiver services.
AD Service Handbooks (service definitions) and Service-Specific Resources:

Adult Day Health Service Handbook
Assisted Living (and TBI Supported Residential Living) Service Handbook
Assistive Technology Supports, Home Modifications, and Vehicle Modifications Service Handbook

Brochures:

Approved vs Unapproved Resources

Chore Service Handbook
Companion Service Handbook
Extra Care for Children with Disabilities Service Handbook

Parental Portion Information - Parents' financial responsibility when using Extra Care for Children with Disabilities.

Home Again Service Handbook
Home-Delivered Meals Service Handbook
Independent Skills Building Service Handbook
LRI Personal Care Service Handbook

Non-Medical Transportation Service Handbook
Personal Care Service Handbook
Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) Service Handbook
Respite Service Handbook

AD Waiver VIDEOS

Watch DHHS videos on YouTube to learn more about the AD Waiver process:

AD Application Process - How to apply for AD Waiver Services.
Service Coordination for the AD Waiver - Learn about your case worker and their role.

Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waivers

Information in this section includes the Family Support Waiver (FSW), DD Adult Day (DDAD) Waiver, and Comprehensive DD (CDD) Waiver.

DD Assessment - The process used to assess needs for DD services.
DD Eligibility - Eligibility requirements and how to apply.
DD Eligibility Information for Psychologists

For Diagnosing Psychologist - What DDD needs in a DD diagnosis.
For School Psychologist - What DDD looks for in DD verification.

DD Quick Guide - Brief descriptions of FSW, DDAD, and CDD services. Longer definitions are located in the service summaries.
DD Policy Manual - Outlines requirements and procedures for Medicaid HCBS DD Waiver services. The manual arranges current requirements and procedures into a comprehensive single document. The manual provides specific definitions and outlines processes. It supports people to navigate Medicaid HCBS DD Waiver services.

Summary of DD Policy Manual October 2025 Changes

DD Provider Directories - includes alphabetical and geographical listings, what services each provider offers, and contact information

DD Service Summaries (service definitions) and Service-Specific Resources:

Home Modification Service Summary

Shared Living Fact Sheet - Using this service and choosing a person to live with.

Youth Continuous Home Service Summary

Employment Resources

Employment Decisions Process - Leads discussion about employment preferences and abilities.
Supportive Employment Lunch and Learn (from October 2025)

Service Coordination Only Resource - When a DD Service Coordinator may be available without a waiver.
Transitioning from Educational Services - Graduate process to transition to Adult DD Services.
Participant Guide for Self-Direction - How to work with an independent provider.
Participant Rights and Obligations - Understand your rights. Your SC will review with you annually.

Participant Rights and Restrictions Resource
Rights and Restrictions Example Resource for Providers
Cameras in HCBS Settings - When and how cameras may be used.

Home Study Survey - When you think you have found a place you want to live, complete this survey to ensure it meets your needs.

DD Waivers VIDEOS

Watch DHHS videos on YouTube to learn more about the DD Waiver Process:

DD Application Process - How to apply for DD Waiver Services.
DD Eligibility Process - What to expect after you apply.
DD Waiver Offers and Medicaid Requirements - What happens after you accept an offer and understanding Medicaid's disability requirements.
Service Coordination for the DD Waivers - Learn about your case worker and their role.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver

TBI Assessment - The process used to assess needs and determine TBI services.
TBI Eligibility - Eligibility requirements and how to apply.
TBI Quick Guide - Brief descriptions of TBI Waiver services.
Service Handbooks (service definitions) and Service-Specific Resources:

Brochures

Approved vs Unapproved Resources

School and Transition - for Ages 14 to 21 Years

Available Services for Teens and Young Adults - Explains the transition from school to adult services and what different services can provide during and after high school.

Available Services for Teens & Young Adults with Developmental Disabilities - Includes information from the Department of Education, Nebraska VR, and DDD.
Available Services for Teens and Young Adults who are Blind or have Vision Impairment - Includes information from the Department of Education, NCBVI, and DDD.

Transition from Educational Services - Funding for eligible people and entry for graduates.
Ready, Set, Go! Brochure - Helps young adults with developmental disabilities make decisions about supports after school ends.
Tips for Teachers - Information for teachers about eligibility, services, and assessments the school can complete.

Therap - Access Your Information

Participants and guardians can access Therap, the web-based case management system.

Therap Website - Login to your account.
Therap Access Release - Fill out and submit to request a username and password.
Access for Guardians and Participants - Information about Therap access.
Authorization for Disclosure of Protected Health Information - Fill out and submit with the Therap access form, as a participant or guardian requesting Therap access for someone else.

Provider Information

Providers should be sure to check and review provider webpages.

Functional Behavioral Assessments, Behavior Support Plans, and Safety Plans

Functional Behavioral Assessments & Behavior Support Plans - How to help a participant with target behaviors.
Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) Information

Functional Behavioral Assessment Template - Expectations for a participant's FBA. This meets requirements listed in the Behavioral Health Service Definitions for Heritage Health.
FBA Checklist - one-page list of who can complete, required elements, and important tips.

Behavior Support Plan (BSP) Information

Behavior Support Plan Checklist - one-page list of required elements and important tips.

Safety Plan Information

Safety Plan Template - A fillable form.
Safety Plan Example - An example of the safety plan form.
Safety Plan Checklist - one-page list of required elements and important tips.

Habilitation Program Overview - Guide to writing habilitation programs.

Incident Reporting Guidelines - AD and TBI Providers

Incident Reporting and Death Review - Instructions for completing incident reports for participants of the AD and TBI waivers.
Incident Reporting and GER Guide in Therap - Instructions for reporting incidents.

Incident Reporting Guidelines - DD Providers

Incident Reporting and GER Guide - Instructions for completing incident reports for participants of DD waivers.
Incident Follow-up Guide - Instructions for completing follow-up to incidents for participants of DD waivers.
Incident Reporting Follow-up by Category - Required SC follow-up.

Independent Provider Guides - DD Providers

How to Become an Independent Provider for DD Services - An overview of DD services, provider qualifications and how to become an independent provider.
Independent Provider Adding Services: Process for Current Providers - How an independent provider adds a new service with Maximus.

Restriction Resources - DD Waivers

Participant Rights and Restrictions Resource
Rights and Restrictions Example Resource for Providers
Cameras in HCBS Settings - When and how cameras may be used.

Risk Endorsement - DD Waivers

Risk Endorsement Resource - Outlines requirements and expectations for an agency provider to deliver services to participants whose behavioral needs require a higher level of support and oversight.

Special Health Care Needs

Special Health Care Programs - Comparison of services available on each program and brief program descriptions.

Disabled Children's Program (DCP)

Disabled Children's Program Flyer - Learn about the program.
DCP Application - Complete and submit to apply for DCP.
MHCP Referral Form - Used for DCP.
Medically Handicapped Children's Program (MHCP) Guidance Document
Provider Information

Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS)

DPFS Service and Device Application Self-Assessment - Complete and submit to apply for DPFS.
DPFS Disability Report - Completed by health care or medical professional and submitted with application.
DPFS Services Quick Guide - Brief descriptions of DPFS services.
DPFS Program Billing Form - Provider billing form.
Title 472 Income and Resource Eligibility Guidance

Genetically Handicapped Persons Program (GHPP)

Genetically Handicapped Persons Program Flyer - Learn about the program.
GHPP Application - Complete and submit to apply for GHPP.
MHCP Referral Form - Used for GHPP.
Medical Deductions Worksheet - Complete and submit with GHPP application.
Medically Handicapped Children's Program (MHCP) Guidance Document

Lifespan Respite

Lifespan Respite Subsidy Program Application - Complete and submit to apply for Lifespan Respite.
Lifespan Respite Subsidy Program Request for Exceptional Circumstances, including Crisis Respite
Lifespan Respite Network Workforce Brochure - Learn about becoming a provider.
Lifespan Respite Provider Application - Apply to provide Lifespan Respite.
Lifespan Respite Billing Form - Provider billing form.

Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network Brochure - Learn about respite services.
Lifespan Respite Subsidy Income Resource Guidance
Title 464 Lifespan Respite Services Program Guidance Document

Medically Handicapped Children's Program (MHCP)

MHCP: What Families can Expect Brochure
MHCP Application - Complete and submit to apply for MHCP.
MHCP Income Guidelines
MHCP Referral Form
Medical Deductions Worksheet - Complete and submit with MHCP application.
Medically Handicapped Children's Program (MHCP) Guidance Document
Provider Information

DHHS Resources

For Aging Adults

Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network - Describes Nebraska's respite provider system. Includes information for receiving and providing respite.
State Unit on Aging - (800) 942-7830 - Available local resources and services.

For People with Disabilities

Down Syndrome Information - DHHS Public Health website with information for people with Down Syndrome, and those who love them.
Nebraska Council on Developmental Disabilities - (402) 471-2330 - Advocates for people with developmental disabilities.
Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network - Describes Nebraska's respite provider system. Includes information for receiving and providing respite.

Medicaid provides health insurance to eligible people. A person must receive Medicaid to be on a Medicaid HCBS waiver. A person on a waiver gets the same Medicaid benefits as anyone else receiving Medicaid.

Medicaid Eligibility webpage
How to Apply for Medicaid Coverage if You Have a Disability - Applying for Medicaid because of a disability
Medical Documentation Guide - Providing information to support your disability diagnosis.
Medicaid Disability Review (State Review Team)
Durable Medical Equipment brochure

Nebraska Resources

Along the Way Series - Age-Based Resources

Developed by Fritz and O'Hare Associates with funding from the Nebraska Council on Developmental Disabilities. Updated in 2022.

Resource Compilations & Information

Answers4Families - Information, education and support for Nebraskans with special needs.

Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska - Focuses on brain injury prevention, education, advocacy, and support.
Nebraska Resource and Referral System - Statewide database created with input from Nebraska families, service providers and organizations.
PTI Nebraska - (800) 284-8520 - Resource for families of children with disabilities or special health needs. Empowers parents and provides knowledge to improve education and healthcare for children.

Advocacy & Support

Answers4Families - Information, education and support for Nebraskans with special needs.
The Arc of Nebraska - (402) 475-4407 - Advocacy for people with DD and their families.
Autism Society of Nebraska - Support network of people who advocate, educate and support.
Brain Injury Alliance of Nebraska - Focuses on brain injury prevention, education, advocacy, and support.
Disability Rights Nebraska - (800) 422-6691 - Works for dignity, equality and empowerment of people with disabilities.
Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands - (402) 991-1800 - Connects people touched by Down Syndrome through education, advocacy and support.
Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska - (402) 421-1338 - Support group provides family networking and new parent support for children diagnosed with Down Syndrome.
League of Human Dignity - Consumer-based, non-profit organization promotes integration of people with disabilities. Advocates for needs and rights while providing services to help people be independent.
Nebraska Children's Home Society - (402) 451-0787 - Provides support for families, children, kinship caregivers, grandparents, and adoptive families with access to community resources, support groups, and ongoing educational opportunities.
Nebraska RentWise - Increases community awareness and support for quality, affordable rental housing. It is a program to help renters obtain and keep rental housing and to be successful renters through education.
Ombudsman's Office - Will help resolve a problem, concern or complaint impacting a resident of a long-term care facility.
People First of Nebraska - (308) 530-9209 or (402) 559-4892 – Self-advocacy organization run for and by people with disabilities.
PTI Nebraska - (800) 284-8520 - Resource for families of children with disabilities or special health needs. Empowers parents and provides knowledge to improve education and healthcare for children.
Supported Decision Making - Information provided by Monroe-Meyer on alternatives to guardianship in Nebraska.
UNL Center for Children, Families, and the Law - Works to improve systems and outcomes for children and families.

Enable Savings Accounts

Enable accounts are offer checking, savings, and investment accounts for people with disabilities. This gives participants the ability to save money without it affecting their benefits (up to $100,000).

Enable Website

Learn More

Enable Plan Information Guide
Lunch and Learn: Enable Savings Plan - October 15, 2025

Guardianship Resources

Information about the guardianship process and guardian responsibilities.

Supported Decision-Making - Video from UNMC Munroe-Meyer Institute.
State of Nebraska Judicial Branch, Office of The Public Guardian resources:

The Court Appointment Process
Guardian and Conservator Education - The Course "Becoming a Guardian and/or Conservator" is required by Neb. Rev. Stat. § 30-2627 (D .
Frequently Asked Questions about Guardianship
Resources based on age/need:

Guardianship Handbook - from Legal Aid of Nebraska
Guardian Connect Now - Serves Nebraska guardians and conservators by providing resources, education, community, and support.
University of Nebraska - Lincoln Extension "NebFact" resources:

Supported Decision Making Resources

There is no requirement to have a guardian in order to receive services.

Supported Decision Making Resources from Disability Rights of Nebraska
Supported Decision-Making and Guardianship - Video from UNMC Munroe-Meyer Institute.
University of Nebraska - Lincoln Extension "NebFact" resources:

Alternatives to Guardianship

Nebraska Department of Education

Office of Special Education Transition Website on the Nebraska Department of Education website explains what to expect and what is required.
Nebraska's Journey to Inclusion

Services

ATP (Assistive Technology Partnership) - (888) 806-6287 - Helps Nebraskans with disabilities, their families, and professionals get devices and services.

Department of Education - Nebraska Department of Education information about Special Education.
Easter Seals Nebraska - Provides services to help people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to live, learn, work and play.
League of Human Dignity - Consumer-based, non-profit organization promotes integration of people with disabilities. Advocates for needs and rights while providing services to help people be independent.
Munroe-Meyer Institute - (800) 656-3937 - University Center of Excellence for DD education, research and services. Provides services and support for people with intellectual, developmental and genetic disorders.
Nebraska Children's Home Society - (402) 451-0787 - Provides support for families, children, kinship caregivers, grandparents, and adoptive families with access to community resources, support groups, and ongoing educational opportunities.
Nebraska VR - Helps people with disabilities prepare for, find and keep jobs. Helps businesses recruit, train and retain employees with disabilities.
Special Olympics Nebraska - Non-profit organization that uses sports to encourage and empower people with intellectual disabilities, promote acceptance and foster understanding and respect.
Ticket to Work - Helps people with disabilities explore competitive employment.

State Government

Nebraska Legislature - Official website of the Nebraska Unicameral Legislature.
Ombudsman's Office - Will help resolve a problem, concern or complaint impacting a resident of a long-term care facility.

National Resources

Americans with Disabilities Act

ADA - Information and technical assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Charting the LifeCourse Life Experience Series - Age-Based Quick Guides

Each four-page Quick Guide contains a few questions from each life domain for that specific life stage. These can be used by anyone to work toward their vision for a good life.

Focus on Early Childhood - Early childhood is the time in a child's life before they begin school full time.
Focus on School Age - School age is the years from kindergarten through middle school.
Focus on Transition to Adulthood - Transition means that you are moving from childhood to young adulthood and from school to adult life.
Focus on Adulthood - Adulthood is the period from the time after we transition from school and childhood years through the time when we enter our golden years.
Focus on Aging - Aging is the period of life when we begin to slow down and experience many age-related changes.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) - Federal agency responsible for the administration of Medicare and Medicaid.

Social Security

Social Security Online - Official Social Security Website.
The Red Book - Guide to employment supports for people with disabilities.

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What would you like to do?

What would you like to do?

What you need to know

What you need to know

​Apply for a Waiver

DDD Publications​ and Videos

​DHHS Resources​​

Nebraska Resources​​

National Resources​

More

Resources for Home and Community-Based Services

Apply for a Waiver

DDD Publications and Videos

DHHS Resources

Nebraska Resources

National Resources