Try It
Frequently Asked Questions
What are waiver programs?

Colorado’s waiver programs give an extra set of benefits and supports beyond those usually offered by Health First Colorado (Medicaid). These benefits and supports can help you stay in the community, rather than living in an institution or hospital. Waivers have some extra program rules and certain waivers may have waitlists.
How many different waiver programs are there?

There are a total of 10 different waiver programs in Colorado. Six of those programs are for adults with disabilities and four are for children with disabilities.
What are the names of the waiver programs for adults with disabilities?

The waiver programs that serve adults with disabilities are the:
What are the names of the waiver programs for children with disabilities?

The Waiver programs that serve children with disabilities are the:
Do I have to be on Health First Colorado (Medicaid) to qualify for a waiver program?

For waiver programs, you need to qualify for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and also, separately, meet the waiver’s own additional eligibility requirements.
If you already have Health First Colorado (Medicaid) coverage, you can go ahead and apply for any waiver program. Depending on the waiver, contact your local Community Centered Board, Single Entry Point Agency (SEP), or the Member Contact Center.
If you don’t have Health First Colorado (Medicaid) coverage, you may be able to apply for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) at the same time as you apply for waiver benefits – it depends on the waiver rules. If you aren’t sure about this, contact the Member Contact Center.
Depending on your situation, you may need to apply for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) (or the Medicaid Adult Buy-In) separately, before you can apply for the waiver you need. You can apply:
- Online on the Colorado PEAK website
- With a paper application (available in English, Spanish, or large print). Fill it out and return it by mail, fax, or in person at your county human services department , or
- By phone at 1-800-221-3943.
Does everyone on Health First Colorado (Medicaid) qualify for a waiver program?

Not everybody with Health First Colorado (Medicaid) qualifies for a waiver program. Waiver programs are for people who need a level of care that would usually be provided in a nursing home or other institutional setting. That’s why waivers are designed to give you the benefits and services to keep living in the community. Each waiver program has a different threshold for the level of care you must need.
Can I apply for a waiver if I live in a nursing home or other institution?

Yes, you can apply for a waiver if you live in a nursing home or institution! Waivers are meant to help you live in a home in the community. A waiver could let you move out of your nursing home, hospital setting, or other institution into a house or apartment. Learn more about transitioning from a facility to your own home in DB101’s Long-Services and Supports Programs article.
Are there income and resource limits for waiver programs?

This depends on the waiver. Every adult waiver has an income and resource limit. Each children’s waiver has its own financial eligibility requirements: some are based on the income and resources of the child, and some are based on the income and resources of the parents.
Can waiver programs help me look for work and get a job?

The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver and Supported Living Services (SLS) Waiver include:
- Pre-Vocational Services, which can help you learn good work habits and skills and connect you with an employer.
- Supported Employment Services, which help with training, job development, and getting a job.
The other waivers do not have employment support. However, many services are helpful when looking for work and once you get a job. For example, you could use non-medical transportation to go to school, a training program, career fairs, or to your place of work.
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) can help you with education, training, finding a job, and building your career. You can work with DVR counselors to understand how waiver services can help build your career.
Can I use waiver programs if I already have a job?

You can still qualify for most waivers if you have a job that meets the income requirements. For example, most adult waivers allow you to earn up to $2,742 per month. If you earn more than that amount, you can qualify through the Health First Colorado Buy-In Program For Working Adults With Disabilities (Medicaid Adult Buy-In).
Where can I find more information on waiver programs?

For more information on waiver programs, visit Colorado’s website on Long-Term Services and Support Programs and browse the pages on Home and Community-Based Services (HBCS) Waivers.
Learn more
Long-Term Services and Supports Programs
Learn about programs that can help you live in a home in the community.
How Health Benefits Work
Learn about the different ways you may be able to get health coverage.
Benefits for Young People
Find out how benefits support young people who work.
Get Expert Help
SSI and SSDI
How Work Affects SSI and SSDI
-
Call Ability Connection Colorado (ACCO)
1-303-691-9339 - Contact a certified benefits counselor
-
Call the Ticket to Work Help Line
1-866-968-7842
Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
- Contact your county human services department
-
Call Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
1-800-221-3943 -
Call a Medicaid Adult Buy-In expert
1-800-711-6994
Medicare
-
Call Medicare
1-800-633-4227 -
Call the Colorado State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
1-888-696-7213
Work Preparation
- Contact your Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) office
- Contact your local Workforce Center
-
Call the Colorado Office of Employment First
1-303-981-1236
Give Feedback