HCBS waiver · state

New Freedom Waiver

WA Department of Social and Health Services

The New Freedom waiver, operating since 2005, provides an alternative to nursing home care for older adults, people who are blind, and people with disabilities who live in their own homes and want increased choice and control over their services and supports through a budget-based program. CMS approved the renewal application on September 24, 2024; the renewal is effective January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2029. Renewal changes: (1) expanded the eligible service area to add Spokane, Whitman, Stevens, Pend Oreille, and Ferry counties; (2) revised several performance measures; (3) added a new provider type, Assistive Technology Professional, to the Training and Educational Supports service.

Who qualifies

Older adults, blind individuals, or people with disabilities who meet nursing facility level of care, meet WA Medicaid LTSS financial eligibility, live in their own homes, and reside in King, Pierce, Spokane, Whitman, Stevens, Pend Oreille, or Ferry county.

What it covers

Personal Assistance Service, Treatment and Health Maintenance Supports, Individual Directed Goods/Services/Supports, Environmental and Vehicle Modifications, and Training and Educational Supports (now including Assistive Technology Professional). Services are delivered through a participant-directed monthly budget.

Cost

Medicaid waiver, no premium. Participation may apply for participants with income above the SSI standard. Specific FPL/income/asset limits not stated on this page; follow WA Medicaid LTSS financial rules.

How to apply

Contact your local DSHS Home and Community Services (HCS) office for new applications, or your case manager if already enrolled. Questions about the waiver itself can go to Anne Moua at DSHS.

Where to get this in Washington

One organization delivers this program.

Seattle/King County Aging & Disability Services (206) 684-0660
Seattle Human Services division that serves as the AAA for King County. Runs Community Living Connections for aging/disability help and administers caregiver support, healthy aging, and age-friendly programs.

Apply online

www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/hcbs-%E2%80%93-new-freedom-waiver-amendment

Source www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/hcbs-%E2%80%93-new-freedom-waiver-amendment