Minn. Stat. §256B.501, subd. 1 and Minn. R. parts 9510.1020 to 9510.1140

The purpose of special needs funding is to provide person-specific needed services when the costs of the services are not included in the per diem of the day training and habilitation (DT&H). Provision of and payment for these services is intended to meet short-term needs so persons may access their day services.

186 Special needs funding: One-time reimbursement of consultation, equipment, short-term staff intervention and/or training costs.

People who reside in community-based ICFs/DD are eligible for 186 special needs funding if the application shows the person:

Providers are eligible for special needs funding if all of the following are met:

Special needs funding cannot exceed 12 months and 1,440 staff hours. Funding is reviewed for approval once the county determines that other funding sources or alternatives for services have been exhausted.

Special needs funding may be approved for up to 12 months with a maximum of two renewals.

Supporting documentation, including an addendum to the client’s ISP must indicate the need for services that special needs funding is being requested to support.

The provider completes the Provider Application for Special Needs Funding DHS-4677D (PDF). The county determines if the provider and the person or persons identified in the application meet the eligibility requirements.

Quarterly reports from the provider and case manager are submitted to DHS.

A letter of approval or denial of the request will be sent from the Disability Services Division, ICF/DD manager within 30 working days of receipt of the complete application.

If the request is denied, the ICF/DD manager will specify the reason(s) for denial, based on the requirements for approval within the statute and rule governing the special needs funding.

Requests for reconsideration of denials must address these reasons specifically. Such requests must be received by DHS within 10 days of notice of the decision to deny the request.

If the request for reconsideration is denied, the commissioner's decision is final. However, people whose services are denied, terminated or reduced may appeal that action. All appeals of county action shall be heard and decided in accordance with Minn. Stat. §256.045.