ALTCS Eligibility for Children
The Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) may provide critical services and support if you care for a child in Arizona with significant medical or developmental needs. Children can qualify for ALTCS, especially if they meet medical and financial criteria or are eligible for the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD).
Medical and Functional Eligibility
Children must require a nursing facility level of care, as determined through a Pre-Admission Screening (PAS). This evaluation examines how much help a child needs with basic daily tasks and whether they require supervision or skilled care.
For children with developmental disabilities, ALTCS eligibility typically goes hand-in-hand with DDD eligibility. Qualifying conditions include autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, intellectual disability, or similar conditions with onset before age 18 that cause substantial limitations in at least three of the following areas:
- Language (receptive and expressive)
- Learning
- Self-direction
- Economic self-sufficiency
- Self-care
- Mobility
- Capacity for independent living
Financial Eligibility
ALTCS evaluates the child’s income and assets separately from the parents. To qualify:
- Income limit: The child must earn under $2,901 monthly (300% of the SSI benefit rate as of 2025).
- Asset limit: No more than $2,000 in countable resources. Specific exclusions apply, such as ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts.
DDD Eligibility Criteria
The Department of Child Safety (DCS) and Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) work jointly to identify and support qualified children.
Policy Overview
- Children with a diagnosed or potential developmental disability must be referred to DDD.
- Foster homes with children with developmental disabilities must apply for Child Developmental Home certification.
Birth to Age 3
Children are referred to the Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP), which may refer eligible children to DDD.
Age 3 to 6
Refer children with qualifying diagnoses like autism, Down syndrome, or cerebral palsy, or with risk factors such as:
- Spina bifida with Arnold-Chiari malformation
- Fetal alcohol syndrome
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Birth weight under 1000 grams with neurological signs
Also refer children showing significant delays (50% in one domain or 25% in two or more):
- Physical (fine/gross motor, vision, hearing)
- Cognitive
- Communication
- Social-emotional
- Self-help
Age 6 and Older
Must have a diagnosis from a licensed professional and show limitations in at least three of the following life activities:
- Language
- Learning
- Self-direction
- Economic self-sufficiency
- Self-care
- Mobility
- Independent living
Referral Process
- DCS Specialists submit applications
- Include documentation per the DDD-1991A Eligibility Checklist
If the child becomes DDD-eligible post-placement, foster homes must apply for certification, or re-evaluation may be required.
Out-of-Home Placement (DDD-Eligible Children)
Emergency Placement
- Submit a Service Request via Guardian
- DDD Network Admin provides caregiver options
- Child is placed, and DCS notifies DDD
Non-Emergency Placement
- Includethe DDD Support Coordinator in team planning
- Follow emergency steps if needed
After-Hours Placement
DCS follows the placement protocol and notifies DDD within one business day.
Transition Planning
Start six months before age 18. Consider:
- Living arrangements
- Guardianship or legal support
- Behavioral health needs
- ALTCS and SSI eligibility
- Education and employment planning
Collaboration Between DCS and DDD
- Participate in PCSP or IFSP meetings
- Include DDD coordinators in case planning
- Understand and advocate for recommended services
Bottom Line
ALTCS can provide essential support for children with significant needs. If your child may qualify—or if you’re unsure—reaching out early and compiling thorough documentation can make all the difference. We can help you start the process and guide you through each step.
