Finding the right support for your child with a developmental disability can feel overwhelming. In Michigan, the Children’s Waiver Program (CWP) exists to help families access services that allow their child to remain at home and in the community—rather than being placed in institutional care. But how does it work, and who qualifies? Here’s a helpful overview.
What Is the Michigan's Children’s Waiver Program?
The Children’s Waiver Program (CWP) is a Medicaid-funded program for children with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD) who have significant needs and do not currently qualify for Medicaid due to family income. The waiver “waives” parental income and looks only at the child’s level of need, allowing access to Medicaid and additional services.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for the Children’s Waiver Program, a child must:
Be age 0–18.
Have a diagnosis of a developmental disability.
Not already have Medicaid (the waiver helps them qualify).
Reside with a parent or legal guardian.
Be at risk of institutionalization (i.e., the family cannot meet the child’s needs without significant support).
Need habilitative services, which means help learning skills they've never developed (not regaining lost skills).
How to Apply
Contact your local Community Mental Health (CMH) agency. You can find this by searching “[Your County] CMH” or visiting the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) website.
Ask specifically about the Children’s Waiver Program. Some families are mistakenly told they don’t qualify simply because they already have Medicaid. Be clear that you’re seeking CWP for a child who does not currently have Medicaid.
Complete a Pre-Screen Assessment. This lengthy, detailed assessment helps determine the level of your child’s need. It includes input about the child and family situation, including mental and physical health, household makeup, and more.
Wait for Scoring. Michigan uses a “weighing list” (not a waiting list). Children with the highest needs are invited first, regardless of when they applied.
What Happens If You're Invited?
If your child scores high enough to be invited:
A case manager (or support coordinator) will walk you through services.
An Individual Plan of Service (IPOS) will be developed, outlining which services your child will receive.
You'll also gain access to Medicaid State Plan services plus Children’s Waiver services.
What Services Are Available?
Services through the CWP can include:
✅ Community Living Supports (CLS): Staff who work with your child on independence, socialization, personal care, and life skills.
✅ Respite Care: Time for caregivers to take a break while trained staff care for your child.
✅ Home Modifications: Ramps, widened doorways, lifts, accessible bathrooms, and more.
✅ Fencing: For children at risk of wandering (elopement), 200 feet of chain-link fence may be approved.
✅ Specialized Equipment: Diapering supplies, adaptive seating, safety beds, etc., as needed.
✅ Vehicle Modifications: Lifts, tie-downs, or accessibility upgrades for family vehicles.
✅ Therapies: Music therapy, recreational therapy, art therapy, and newly added equine therapy.
✅ Overnight Health and Safety Supports: Support for children who are active or unsafe at night, to let caregivers rest.
✅ Family Training: Education for caregivers to support their child’s therapies and equipment use.
✅ Self-Directed Services: Parents can choose and manage staff with help from a fiscal intermediary.
Common Questions Answered
Q: My child already has Medicaid. Can they get CWP?
A: No. CWP is only for children who do not already qualify for Medicaid. However, children with Medicaid may still access services like CLS or respite through their local CMH.
Q: What about TEFRA Medicaid?
A: TEFRA is another Medicaid eligibility pathway. If your child already has Medicaid through TEFRA, they are not eligible for CWP. Do not drop TEFRA in hopes of getting CWP—there’s no guarantee of receiving a slot.
Q: How many children get this waiver?
A: As of early 2025, Michigan has 569 CWP slots. That’s expanding to 669 in the coming months. These slots are always full, and around 8–10 new children are invited each month.
Q: What is the average wait time?
A: It depends on your child’s needs. Those with the highest scores are prioritized.
Q: Can a child with autism qualify?
A: Yes, but diagnosis alone isn’t enough. The child must have significant needs and meet all other eligibility requirements.
Q: What if I'm denied?
A: You have the right to request a Medicaid Fair Hearing. The denial letter must explain why and provide instructions for appealing. An Administrative Law Judge will review your case.
Q: My CMH doesn’t know about CWP. What should I do?
A: Ask for the Children’s Services department or request to speak with the Waiver Lead at your region’s PIHP (Prepaid Inpatient Health Plan).
Final Thoughts
The Children’s Waiver Program can be life-changing for families who need more support but don’t qualify for Medicaid due to income. While the process can feel overwhelming, understanding your rights and resources is the first step to getting the help your child deserves.