Overview
If you’ve been navigating disability services in Washington State, you’ve almost certainly run into these two acronyms: DDA and DVR. They’re both state agencies, both provide funding for services, and both work with organizations like CAA. But they serve different purposes and understanding the difference can save families a lot of confusion and time.
DDA: Developmental Disabilities Administration
DDA is part of Washington State’s Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). Its mission is to support individuals with developmental disabilities across their entire lifespan not just in the workplace, but in all areas of life.
DDA funds a wide range of services, including:
- Employment support
- Respite care (like CAA’s Community Center and Nexus Youth Club)
- Community inclusion
- Residential and in-home support
- Supported living services
DDA eligibility is based on having a qualifying developmental disability that began before age 22 and that creates significant functional limitations in multiple areas of daily life. Once eligible, individuals may access DDA services through a waiver system. Some services have waitlists, so applying early matters.
DDA is the right starting point when a family needs broad, long-term support across home, community, and employment.
DVR: Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
DVR is also part of DSHS, but its focus is specifically on employment. DVR helps people with disabilities, physical, mental, or developmental, who want to work and whose disability creates a barrier to doing so.
DVR funds services like:
- Vocational assessments and career counseling
- Job coaching and supported employment
- Assistive technology for the workplace
- Education and training costs related to a job goal
- Transportation related to employment
DVR eligibility is generally more accessible than DDA’s, it doesn’t require a developmental disability specifically and is centered on whether someone wants to work and whether their disability makes that harder. A referral to DVR can often be made quickly, and services can begin relatively soon after eligibility is confirmed.
DVR is the right starting point when the primary goal right now is finding or keeping a job.
How They Work Together
Many individuals who work with CAA are connected to both DDA and DVR at the same time — and that’s intentional. DVR might fund the job coaching and placement support, while DDA funds the community inclusion or respite care. The two agencies coordinate with each other and with providers like CAA to build a full picture of support around each person.
| DDA | DVR | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Whole-life support | Employment |
| Eligibility | Developmental disability, before age 22, functional limitations in 3+ life areas | Any disability that creates a barrier to work |
| Services Funded | Respite, community inclusion, employment, residential | Job coaching, career counseling, assistive tech, training |
| Waitlists? | Yes, for some services | Generally faster access |
| Best starting point when… | You need broad, ongoing support | The primary goal is getting or keeping a job |
What This Means for CAA Services
CAA is a provider for both agencies. Services like Employment Services, Community Inclusion, and Student Services are typically funded through DVR, DDA, or both. Respite programs like the Community Center and Nexus Youth Club are funded through DDA respite waivers. When you contact CAA, the team can help identify which agency funds the services you’re looking for — so you don’t have to figure that out on your own.
Learn How to Know If Your Loved One Qualifies → | DDA Kennewick Office | Contact Columbia Ability Alliance
FAQ
Can my family member use DVR even if they don’t have a DDA waiver?
Yes. DVR has its own eligibility process and doesn’t require DDA eligibility. Many people access DVR services before or without DDA involvement.
We’re new to all of this. Which agency should we contact first?
It depends on your most pressing need. If your family member wants to work, call DVR first — they tend to move faster. If you need broader support (respite, community inclusion, residential), contact DDA. If you’re not sure, call CAA and we’ll help you figure it out.
Do DDA and DVR ever cover the same services?
There’s some overlap, particularly around supported employment. In those cases, the two agencies typically coordinate to determine which one is the primary funder, families don’t usually have to manage that negotiation themselves.
