Any advice for filing with Washington's DDD?

June 11, 2011 4:47 PM

Have you successfully applied with the Division of Developmental Disabilities in Washington State? If so, any tips?

I'm filling out the DDD application for my son, who has high-functioning autism and some unique issues. We have medical insurance already, but there are some services we can get only through the DDD. The other parents of HFA kids I've spoken to about this have many rejections and few success stories.

Is it better to mail in an application or go to an office in person?
How do you get someone to return your call?
How long does it take an application to be processed?
Any other advice?

posted by anonymous to Law & Government (2 answers total)

Have you already checked out the DDD website? There's information there about services, eligibility guidelines, and the assessment process, as well as links to regional contacts.

I may be able to give you some more info on the topic...drop me a line if you want.
posted by Vervain at 12:26 AM on June 12, 2011

I have not worked with this benefit program. But in the context of other disability-based benefits programs I have dealt with, it can be helpful to think about "how is this person on their worst day" when filling out the application. It can be a distressing experience, to focus on a loved one's limitations (when one likely prefers to focus on skills and abilities), but program eligibility is typically based upon limitations.
posted by ClaudiaCenter at 10:13 AM on June 12, 2011