• Application Process  

• Eligibility  

• Services  

• Support Coordination

DDD services for adult life begin at age 21. The application process begins after 18. 

1. The student must have Medicaid to be eligible for DDD services. 

2. Complete the DDD application with the required documentation. After the application is submitted with all required documentation, you will be contacted by a DDD intake worker. The intake worker will schedule a day/time to for you to take a survey called the NJCAT.

3. The NJCAT is a survey that evaluates the student's need for support in three main areas: self-care, behavioral, and medical. The results determine the tier (or budget) for DDD services. For example, the budget for DDD Supports Program consists of tier levels from Tier A (smallest budget) to Tier E (largest budget).

4. After taking the NJCAT,  you will be given your Tier(budget amount) for services. When determined eligible for DDD, an intake coordinator will discuss the transition from school to DDD and adult services. They will also  provide you with a form to select a Support Coordination Agency. You will put your top 2 choices on the form and send it to the address provided by DDD. This is a list of agencies provided recommended by Bergen County and Ridgewood parents.

5. A Support Coordinator is like a case manager for adult services. Your Support Coordinator will guide you with your budget and connect you with services. Your initial meetings with your Support Coordinator will allow you to provide information regarding the student's needs and goals. Within 30 days, the Support Coordinator uses the information to develop an Individualized Service Plan. This is an outline of services needed to accomplish goals and enhance adult life.

There are helpful Person Centered Planning Tools used to collect information you will share with your Support Coordinator. Examples:  Charting the Life Course tools help you develop a detailed plan for adult life and DDD services. PCPT Portfolio Form helps organize information related to the student's interests and strengths

Preparing this information in advance will help your Support Coordinator understand the student's needs, goals and required services. 

For help with the application or questions regarding services
Bergen County DDD Office (973) 977-4004  Email Bergen County DDD

Important Links:

• DDD's Transition Page

• Application Process with application forms

• NJCAT and sample questions

• Support Coordination with information on their role and how they help

• Self Directed Services is an approach to delivering home and community-based services (HCBS) that offers increased choice and authority over how, and from whom, an individual receives their waiver services. 

Use the resources below for information on the application process, services, & support coordination

How to Transition to DDD Adult Services

• Sign Up to receive periodic updates around DDD, Transition & Employment which includes newsletters, announcements, webinars, and more

• Your DDD counselor will recommend you sign up for the DDD Listserv to be aware of updates and to allow you to ask questions