Home modification reimbursement instructions
The Adoption Assistance Program may reimburse costs incurred for home modification. Home modification is limited to modifications to meet a child's special needs upon which eligibility for adoption assistance was approved. Reimbursement is limited to once every five years, per child. Home modifications include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Wheelchair ramps
- Handrail and grab bars
- Accessible shower
- Elevated bathtubs and toilets
- Widened doorways
- Shatterproof windows
- Blinking lights and tactile alarms as alternate warning systems
- Lowered kitchen work surfaces
- Modified cabinets and sinks that provide wheelchair space
- Handles and hoses for showerheads
- Door hinge replacements
- Lifting devices
- Special communication devices that enable caregivers not immediately present to monitor and respond to a child
- Air conditioning required due to a child's medical condition
- Special covers, such as Plexiglas, for appliances, windows, fireplaces and radiators required to protect a child
- Door opening devices
- Fence
You must obtain prior authorization from the Adoption Assistance Program. The following documentation is required before prior authorization can be granted:
- A letter from you with the following information:
- Name of child for whom property modification is requested
- Name of adoptive parent(s)
- Adoptive parents' address, phone number and email address
- Description of the property modification
- A short description about your child's special needs, and why the modification is necessary
- A letter from a medical professional stating how the property modification will meet your child's special needs
- A denial letter from the social service agency in your county stating that you have been denied services for the home modification, and the reason for the denial
- Two detailed bids for the property modification.
The Adoption Assistance Program will not grant prior authorization, and property modification reimbursement will be denied, without the above information.
