Enrolling with Developmental Disabilities Community Services (formerly DDA)

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)

Last checked Nov 11, 2026

The state agency that funds long-term supports for children and adults with developmental disabilities, such as respite, assistive technology and personal care. Enrolling is the first step and is separate from asking for services. You request an enrollment packet, return it with supporting documents, and receive a decision; after that you can request services, which have their own financial and functional requirements. Newer state publications call the agency Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS); some of its pages still say Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). Phone numbers differ by region and are listed on the enrollment page.

Go to the official page for Enrolling with Developmental Disabilities Community Services (formerly DDA) (opens in a new tab)

Where it applies

Washington State

Who it is for

The enrollment page says documentation must confirm a qualifying diagnosis that began before age 18, and that an adaptive assessment from the past three years is needed (the agency offers one at no cost if you do not have one). The agency says it decides within 30 days of receiving the last document it asked for. Services additionally require Medicaid financial eligibility and an assessment.