This section offers links and information about some of the services and public programs available to residents of Maryland. You may also search for specific services by category here or contact the Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center toll-free at 866-806-8400 or email.
Autism Waiver
Also called Autism Medicaid Waiver
Maryland Department of Education/Maryland Department of Health & Mental Hygiene
Autism Waiver Fact Sheet
Waiver participants are eligible for a variety of services, such as respite care, environmental modifications to their home, and family training. Maryland's Autism Waiver was recently renewed for a five-year period, October 1, 2004-September 30, 2009.
The waiver is currently full. To be placed on the Autism Waiver Registry (a.k.a. waiting list), contact 866-417-3480. The wait is currently estimated to be several years.
For more information on the Autism Waiver, please call the Maryland State Department of Education at 410-767-1446 or the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene at 410-767-5220.
Autism Waiver Eligibility
Children who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, defined in the DSM-IV as 299.00 & 299.80.
Children who are ages 1 to 3 years old with an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
Children who are ages 3 through the end of the year that the child turns 21 years old with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and receive more than 12 hours per week of special education and related services.
Children who meet an institutional level of care (Intermediate Care Facility for the Mentally Retarded) and can be served in the community through waiver services. (A diagnosis of mental retardation is not required to be eligible for the waiver.)
Autism Waiver Contacts
Autism Waiver Infants and Toddlers Contacts
DDA
Developmental Disabilities Administration
Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
About DDA
Individuals must apply and be determined eligible for DDA services.
Services are obtained by contacting your regional office.
Types of services:
Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council
The Council is a public policy organization that advocates for the inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life.
Infants and Toddlers (Ages 0-3)
Maryland State Department of Education
The state of Maryland offers an Infants and Toddlers program to identify and support children with developmental delays. Each county has an Infants and Toddlers program (county contacts) that will assess your child, provide ongoing services for your child and family (if eligible), and ensure that procedural safeguards are met to protect the rights of your child and family.
Eligibility
Your child and family may be eligible for early intervention services if your child is under three years of age and:
- Has a delay of 25 percent or more in development; or
- Is developing in a way that is considered "atypical" for most children his or her age; or
- Has a diagnosed condition such as a genetic disorder or severe vision impairment that is likely to affect development.
Assessments and services for your child and family are FREE of charge. You do not need health insurance and you do not need a referral from your doctor.
Transition from School to the Adult World
DORS
Division of Rehabilitation Services
Maryland State Department of Education
About DORS
DORS Programs & Services
Social Security Administration
You can apply for disability benefits online or call toll-free 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment for help in person or by phone. Find the most convenient Social Security office.
They offer a Disability Starter Kit to help you get ready for your disability interview or complete the online application. Each Disability Starter Kit contains a:
- Factsheet that answers questions most people ask about applying for disability benefits,
- Checklist of documents and information we will request, and
- Worksheet to help you gather and organize the information you will need.
Kits are available in English and Spanish;for children under age 18 and adults:
SSI Child Disability Starter Kit – English
SSI Child Disability Starter Kit – Spanish
Adult Disability Starter Kit – English
Adult Disability Starter Kit – Spanish
Foreclosure or Mortgage Problems
Maryland Home Owners Preserving Equity (HOPE)
www.mdhope.org
Federal Trade Commission: Mortgage Payments Sending You Reeling? Here's What to Do
www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/homes/rea04.shtm
OCC Consumer Tips for Avoiding Foreclosure Rescue Scams
www.occ.treas.gov/ftp/ADVISORY/2008-1.html