Getting Started with Living Options in Illinois

At your intake meeting, the ISC staff member will ask questions about the person's medical history, diagnosis, daily living skills, and current support needs. They are trying to determine whether the person meets Illinois' definition of a developmental disability.

In general, a person is eligible if they have a disability that:

• Began before age 22
• Is expected to continue indefinitely
• Results in significant limitations in three or more major areas of daily life (such as self-care, communication, learning, mobility, or independent living)

Common qualifying conditions include intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and certain other conditions — but having a diagnosis alone does not automatically mean a person is eligible. The ISC evaluates functional limitations, not just the diagnosis.

PUNS (Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services) is Illinois' statewide database that tracks people who need DD Waiver services. Think of it as a waiting list — but one where your position depends on how urgently you need services, not just how long you've been waiting.

Your ISC will conduct a PUNS interview with you to gather the information needed for enrollment. During this interview, you'll be placed into one of two categories:

You must update your PUNS annually. Your ISC will contact you when an update is due. If your circumstances change (caregiver health decline, job loss, safety concerns), contact your ISC immediately to update PUNS — changes can affect your prioritization.

To check your current PUNS status, email: DHS.DDD.PUNS@illinois.gov with the individual's full name, birthdate, and last 4 digits of their Social Security number.

Nearly all residential living options in Illinois (CILAs, CLFs, ICF/DDs, and Home-Based Services) are funded through Medicaid. The person must have active Medicaid coverage to receive these services. If they are considering a CILA group or host home, they will also need SNAP (food stamps) benefits.

Medicaid eligibility is based on income and assets. Many people with developmental disabilities qualify through SSI (Supplemental Security Income), which automatically confers Medicaid eligibility in Illinois. If the person is not yet receiving SSI, talk to your ISC about whether to apply.

While you are on the PUNS waiting list, use this time to learn about the different types of residential settings available in Illinois. Understanding these options will help you make a more informed decision when services become available. Here is a summary of the main options:

When funding becomes available and you are selected from the PUNS database, you will receive a selection letter in the U.S. mail from the Department of Human Services. This letter invites you to apply for DD Waiver services.

Receiving this letter is a significant moment. It means state funding has been allocated for the person's services. Here is what to do:

• Contact your ISC agency immediately after receiving the letter. They will guide you through the next steps.
• Confirm Medicaid is active — if it has lapsed, contact DHS to reinstate it as quickly as possible.
• Confirm SNAP is active if considering a CILA group or host home.
• Begin gathering documentation your ISC requests — medical records, behavioral assessments, and other materials needed for the eligibility process.

After PUNS selection, your ISC will conduct or arrange a Pre-Admission Screening (PAS). This is a formal evaluation to confirm that the person meets the level of care required for Waiver services — essentially verifying that they would qualify for institutional care (like an ICF/DD) but can be served in the community instead.

The PAS looks at the person's needs across areas including medical, behavioral, daily living skills, and safety. Your ISC will guide you through what documentation is needed.

Once eligibility is confirmed, your ISC will work with you and the person with a disability to choose a service provider. This is one of the most important decisions in the process, and you have the right to be actively involved.

Things to consider when choosing a provider:

• Location — how close is it to family, friends, work, and community activities?
• Home environment — does it feel comfortable and welcoming?
• Staff — are they experienced, respectful, and a good fit for the person?
• Services offered — do they match the person's specific needs and goals?
• Openings — does the provider have a vacancy that is appropriate?
• Track record — ask your ISC about the provider's history and any past concerns.

You can search for providers by type and location using the maps on this site:

Before services begin, a team will come together to develop an Individual Service Plan (ISP). This is a written document that describes exactly what services and supports the person will receive, what their personal goals are, and how progress will be measured.

The ISP team typically includes:

• The person with a disability (their participation is essential)
• Family members or guardian
• The ISC coordinator
• The service provider's staff
• Any other people the individual wants involved

The ISP is built around the person's choices, preferences, and goals — not just what the provider offers. This is person-centered planning, and it is your right under Illinois law and federal HCBS rules.

Moving into a new home is a major life transition for both the person and their family. Give everyone time to adjust. Most providers work with families to make the transition gradual — this might include visits, overnight stays, and a phased move-in schedule.

After the person is settled, your ISC remains involved. They will:

• Visit the person at least four times per year to check on services
• Ensure the ISP is being followed and update it as needed
• Serve as your point of contact if concerns arise
• Advocate on the person's behalf with the provider or the state

Family involvement does not stop at move-in. Stay in touch with the provider, attend ISP meetings, visit regularly, and maintain your relationship with the ISC. You are still the most important advocate for your family member.