1915(c) HCBS Waiver
A type of Medicaid waiver that pays for home and community-based services so people can live outside an institution.
A 1915(c) waiver is a type of Medicaid waiver named after Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act. It lets states use Medicaid dollars to pay for home and community-based services (HCBS) for people who would otherwise need care in an institution like a nursing home or intermediate care facility. Services can include personal care, respite for family caregivers, adult day health, supported employment, home modifications, assistive technology, and more — the exact menu varies by state and by waiver. Most states run several 1915(c) waivers targeted at different groups: older adults, adults with physical disabilities, people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, children with complex medical needs, and people with traumatic brain injuries. Eligibility usually requires meeting an institutional level of care plus financial limits. Many waivers have waiting lists, sometimes years long. Apply through your state Medicaid agency or Area Agency on Aging.
In real life
- An older adult uses a 1915(c) waiver to receive personal care at home instead of moving to a nursing home.
- A child with complex medical needs gets in-home nursing through her state's children's HCBS waiver.
- An adult with developmental disabilities receives supported employment through a 1915(c) waiver.
Also known as
Frequently asked questions about 1915(c) HCBS Waiver
What services do waivers cover?+
Personal care, respite, adult day health, supported employment, home modifications, and more — depending on the waiver.
Are there waiting lists?+
Often yes — sometimes years long. Apply early and check status regularly.
Who qualifies?+
People who meet an institutional level of care plus state-specific financial limits.
Where do I apply?+
Your state Medicaid agency or Area Agency on Aging.
Source: medicaid.gov