What is OPWDD?

The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is New York State’s agency that coordinates and funds services for people with developmental disabilities. OPWDD’s goal is to promote independence, community inclusion, and quality of life for children and adults, while also supporting their families and caregivers.

OPWDD oversees, coordinates, and funds services but does not typically provide hands-on care directly. Most services are delivered by approved nonprofit agencies, who also help manage the intake and eligibility process. 

OPWDD eligibility is based on several factors.

• Individuals must have a diagnosed developmental disability – including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, Prader-Willi syndrome, or other neurological impairments.
• They must demonstrate impaired functioning in areas such mobility, communication, learning, self-care, etc.
• Individuals must apply for eligibility prior to age 22, or have proof of disability from before that age. 

Once granted, eligibility doesn’t expire.

You can begin the application process even without a diagnosis, and our intake team will guide you through the steps to obtain one and gather the required supporting documentation. Eligibility is based on formal evaluations and records, so having the right documentation in place is an important part of the process.

Once an individual is granted OPWDD eligibility, and has Medicaid in place, they can apply for the OPWDD HCBS Waiver and request the services that will most benefit them. OPWDD services include supports such as respite care (a 1:1 provider working with an individual to give caregivers temporary relief), community habilitation (providers working to build and strengthen daily living skills), vocational training, and more.