Eligibility

Our Service and Support Administration (SSA) team helps individuals and their families identify and receive the services they need for a safe, healthy and enriched lifestyle. We’re here to serve, and that begins with determining eligibility.

Before a person or their child can be connected to services and supports, the person seeking services needs to be found eligible according to the state guidelines that are set by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD). The initial request for eligibility can take place at any age, but eligibility must be re-determined at ages 3, 6, and 16.

Any Lake County resident who has a developmental disability may be assessed for eligibility for County Board services.

• 0-3 years of age must have one documented delay or developmental disability diagnosis
• 3-6 years of age must have two documented delays or a developmental disability diagnosis
• 6-15 years of age must have a documented developmental disability diagnosis and at least 3 substantial functional limitations out of 6 life skill areas assessed using the Children’s Ohio Eligibility Determination Instrument (COEDI)
• 16+ years of age must have a documented developmental disability diagnosis and at least 3 substantial functional limitations out of 7 life skill areas assessed using the Ohio Eligibility Determination Instrument (OEDI)

The SSA team collects information used for determining a person’s eligibility and can assist you with filling out any needed paperwork and completing assessments to become eligible for services.

To begin the eligibility process, the Lake County Board of DD/Deepwood will need the following:

• Verification of the qualifying diagnosis will need to be obtained (current within one year)
• Guardianship/Custody documentation (if applicable)
• Verification of Date of Birth (Birth Certificate)
• Verification of Social Security Number (Social Security Card)
• Proof of Insurance (Insurance card)
• Copy of most recent IEP and ETR

Once all forms and information are completed and returned, you will be contacted to start the process for eligibility determination.  Unless there are documented and justified delays in the process, a letter will be received within 45 days informing you of eligibility status. Please keep in mind that eligibility status may be reviewed at any time in all age categories, especially after a period of inactivity with our agency, or if a significant change in diagnoses, impairment or skill has occurred.

If an individual is determined eligible for services, they will be connected to a Service and Support Administrator (SSA) to create a customized service plan. SSA works collaboratively with other agencies and organizations to make sure needs are being met, as well as to safeguard the rights and protect the choices of the individual.

If an individual is deemed not eligible for services, you will be notified by letter along with information on how to appeal the decision. Our SSA team can connect you with other community resources which may be available to you and your family.

Learn more in our Service & Support Administration – Eligibility and Support Overview Flyer.

Resources:

Ohio Statewide EI System
800-755-GROW (4769)
www.helpmegrow.ohio.gov

Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD)