State Profile · Deep
PENNSYLVANIA
BLast 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 PENNSYLVANIA
How services are run
State agency
Your service plan
Individual Support Plan (ISP)
Self-direction
Self-Directed Services
If you get denied
Deadline to appeal
30 days from your Written notice of decision/action (advance written notice from the Service Coordinator for waiver services)
Keep services during appeal
File within 15 days
- File appeal/request for fair hearing within 30 days of the written notice (55 Pa. Code Section 275.3(b)(1))
- Waiver services continue if the appeal is filed within 15 calendar days of the notice mailing date (Section 275.4(a)(3)(v)(C)(I))
- Advance notice: Service Coordinator gives at least 10 calendar days' notice before reducing/terminating a waiver service
- Community HealthChoices (managed care, physical-disability HCBS): MCO internal appeal, then DHS fair hearing
KEY AGENCIES & RESOURCES
Aging & Disability Resource Center
Pennsylvania ADRC / Aging and Disability Resource Center
NOTABLE WAIVERS
Consolidated Waiver
SourceAdults with ID/autism needing comprehensive, including residential, supports.
Waitlist: PUNS-based emergency/urgent prioritization; document crisis factors.
Person/Family Directed Support Waiver
SourcePeople with ID/autism living with family; capped annual budget.
Waitlist: Waiting list managed via PUNS; update your PUNS regularly.
Community Living Waiver
SourceMid-tier budget waiver for ID/autism supports.
Waitlist: PUNS prioritization applies.
Community HealthChoices (CHC)
SourceAdults 21+ with physical disabilities and seniors (managed LTSS).
Waitlist: No waitlist for eligible enrollees.
