Articles

People with autism spectrum disorders need services and supports, and these costs add up. Did you know that you may be able to obtain Low Intensity Support Services to help cover some of your expenses?

What are Low Intensity Support Services?
Effective December 1, 2009, the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) contracted with licensed Providers to provide Low Intensity Support Services (LISS), previously known as Rolling Access. LISS is a statewide program for individuals eligible for DDA services. LISS works to assist individuals with developmental disabilities improve their quality of life, remain in their own homes, increase or maintain independence and participate in their communities.

What can I use LISS for?
Equipment, supplies, and items recommended by a professional due to the disability require written statement with details related to purpose and expected outcome. LISS MAY include, but are not limited to, supports involving:

· Adaptive equipment
· Assistive technology (after accessing Maryland Assistive Technology Program)
· Community supports
· Home modifications that are disability specific
· Respite
· Therapeutic services
· Financial assistance to avoid eviction and/or utility turn-off
· Therapeutic horseback riding
· Dietary supplements (requires documentation from a doctor)

LISS will only cover services in Maryland. (Items ordered from a catalog can be out-of-state.)

YOU MUST CONTACT YOUR REGIONAL LISS PROVIDER TO VERIFY WHAT SERVICES AND SUPPORTS WILL AND WILL NOT BE COVERED.

Who is eligible for LISS?
To be eligible for LISS, the individual must meet all of the following guidelines:
· be diagnosed with a developmental disability
· be a resident of Maryland
· possess a Social Security card
· not currently receiving any DDA funding for full residential services

How much money can I apply for?
LISS is the payor of last resort. LISS providers will first try to use other available resources to help meet the family's needs. After all governmental and community resources have been exhausted, qualifying eligible individuals may access LISS funding up to $3,000. You can reapply every year and/or can request funds throughout the year up to $3,000 per year. It is not one time only, however future applications will be subject to DDA approval. You may list more than one vendor on your LISS application. Funds are paid directly to the vendor, so you must include a copy of the vendor's invoice(s) for the services/supports received.

What do I need to apply for LISS?
· Diagnosis of a developmental disability verified by an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and/or a medical statement of developmental disability (if the disability code on the IEP is Developmental Disability, back-up documentation of the diagnosis will be needed)
· Copy of the individual's Social Security card
· Invoice(s) for service(s) being requested
· Proof of address (State ID or Driver's License)
· Original application with signature (must be mailed)
· For individuals age 18 or older - copy of the individual's Medical Assistance card or proof of Medical Assistance application
· More information may be requested by the LISS provider depending on the service(s) being requested

A separate application form must be submitted for EACH SERVICE, even if multiple services are through the same vendor.

If you are reapplying for the new fiscal year, you must submit all of the above documentation.

How do I apply?
Contact your Regional LISS Providers. You may also call the LISS toll-free number, 877-230-4951. A representative of the Agency is available between the hours of 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, except for State holidays. When the LISS Coordinator is unavailable, there is a voice messaging service with directions as to how to access emergency services, such as a 911 call. All calls will be returned within one working day from the time the message is recorded. Download an LISS Request Form

LISS Frequently Asked Questions 

If you have a service/resource coordinator, you are encouraged to call them to assist you with this application process.

© 2011 Pathfinders for Autism