Minnesota Medicaid Waiver Programs
Minnesota offers several Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs that help individuals receive care and support in their homes and communities rather than in institutional settings. These waivers are designed to promote independence, improve quality of life, and provide access to personalized services based on individual needs.
Whether an individual is living with a developmental disability, brain injury, physical disability, chronic medical condition, or age-related needs, Minnesota Medicaid waivers can provide the support necessary to live safely and independently in the community.
Brain Injury (BI) Waiver
The Brain Injury (BI) Waiver supports children and adults with traumatic or acquired brain injuries who require a hospital or nursing facility level of care. The program helps individuals remain in their homes and communities while receiving specialized services and supports.
Services May Include
- 24-Hour Emergency Assistance
- Adult Day Services
- Assistive Technology
- Case Management
- Community Residential Services
- Employment Services
- Homemaker Services
- Independent Living Skills Training
- Night Supervision
- Positive Support Services
- Respite Care
- Specialized Equipment and Supplies
- Transportation Services
- Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)
Eligibility
- Must have a qualifying brain injury
- Must be age 0-64
- Must meet a hospital or nursing facility level of care requirement
Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI) Waiver
The CADI Waiver helps people with disabilities live independently in community settings rather than institutions. It is one of Minnesota’s most widely used waiver programs and supports individuals with physical disabilities and related conditions.
Services May Include
- Adult Day Services
- Assistive Technology
- Community Residential Services
- Customized Living
- Employment Exploration Services
- Employment Support Services
- Home Delivered Meals
- Homemaker Services
- Individualized Home Supports
- Integrated Community Supports
- Night Supervision
- Respite Care
- Transportation Services
- Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)
Eligibility
- Age 0-64
- Physical disability or related condition
- Nursing facility level of care required
Community Alternative Care (CAC) Waiver
The Community Alternative Care (CAC) Waiver serves individuals with chronic or complex medical conditions who would otherwise require care in a hospital setting. This waiver helps participants receive high-quality care while remaining at home or in community-based environments.
Services May Include
- Extended Home Care Nursing
- Home Health Care Services
- Personal Care Assistance
- Case Management
- Crisis Respite Services
- Employment Services
- Home Delivered Meals
- Independent Living Skills Therapies
- Individualized Home Supports
- Integrated Community Supports
- Transportation Services
- Specialized Equipment and Supplies
- Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)
Eligibility
- Age 0-64
- Chronic medical condition or disability
- Hospital level of care required
Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver
The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver provides comprehensive support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program focuses on helping participants live meaningful, self-directed lives within their communities.
Services May Include
- 24-Hour Emergency Assistance
- Adult Day Services
- Assistive Technology
- Community Residential Services
- Day Training and Habilitation
- Employment Development Services
- Family Training and Counseling
- Homemaker Services
- Individualized Home Supports
- Integrated Community Supports
- Night Supervision
- Positive Support Services
- Respite Care
- Transportation Services
- Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)
Eligibility
- Intellectual or developmental disability
- Any age
- Must meet Intermediate Care Facility (ICF/IID) level of care requirements
Elderly Waiver (EW)
The Elderly Waiver helps older adults remain in their homes and communities rather than moving to nursing facilities. The program provides personalized services that promote safety, independence, and quality of life.
Services May Include
- Adult Companion Services
- Adult Foster Care
- Case Management
- Customized Living
- Family Caregiver Services
- Home Delivered Meals
- Homemaker Services
- Individual Community Living Supports
- Personal Care Assistance
- Respite Care
- Specialized Equipment and Supplies
- Transportation Services
- Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)
Eligibility
- Age 65 or older
- Must meet nursing facility level of care requirements
Benefits of Minnesota Waiver Programs
Minnesota waiver programs offer numerous benefits for individuals and families, including:
- Greater independence and community participation
- Access to personalized care plans
- Support for family caregivers
- Reduced reliance on institutional care
- Flexible service options through self-directed supports
- Enhanced health, safety, and quality of life
- Employment and vocational support opportunities
These programs are designed to help individuals receive the right level of support while maintaining as much independence as possible.
Need Help Understanding Minnesota Waiver Services?
Navigating Medicaid waiver programs can be complex. Understanding eligibility requirements, available services, and enrollment options is essential for choosing the right support program. Whether you are seeking services for yourself, a family member, or a loved one, professional guidance can help simplify the process and ensure access to the benefits and supports available through Minnesota’s Medicaid waiver programs.