State Profile · Deep
MASSACHUSETTS
A-Last verified 2026-07-03
Deadlines reflect this state’s rules as researched; they can change — always confirm the current deadline with your state agency or Protection & Advocacy office before relying on it.
HOW TO GET SERVICES & APPEAL IN MASSACHUSETTS
How services are run
State agency
Your service plan
Individualized Service Plan (ISP)
Self-direction
Self-Directed Services
If you get denied
Deadline to appeal
60 days from your Notice of intended action by the MassHealth agency (appeal filed on the Fair Hearing Request form)
Keep services during appeal
File within 10 days
- Receive MassHealth notice of intended action
- (Managed care only) exhaust ACO/MCO internal appeal
- File Fair Hearing Request with BOH within 60 days (within 10 days of mailing / before effective date to keep benefits)
- BOH fair hearing before hearing officer
- Rehearing by Medicaid Director / judicial review under M.G.L. c. 30A
KEY AGENCIES & RESOURCES
University Center (UCEDD)
Institute for Community Inclusion (UMass Boston) / Shriver Center UCEDD
Aging & Disability Resource Center
Massachusetts ADRC / Aging and Disability Resource Center
NOTABLE WAIVERS
DDS Adult Supports Waiver
SourceAdults with intellectual disability needing in-home/community supports.
Waitlist: DDS prioritization applies; verify with your area office.
DDS Intensive Supports Waiver
SourceAdults with intellectual disability needing 24/7 residential supports.
Waitlist: Priority-need based; document urgent/emergency status.
Children's Autism Spectrum Disorder Waiver
SourceYoung children with autism; intensive in-home services.
Waitlist: Small capped program with periodic openings — ask DDS about the next enrollment window.
