Program
California home-care waiver (HCBA)
A California Medicaid program that provides nursing and care coordination at home. There's often a waiting list.
What it can pay for
- ramps
- grab bars
- wider doors
- bathroom changes
- roll-in shower
- electrical
- plumbing
- assistive devices
- a medical alert button
- respite care
- personal care
- Official name
- Home and Community-Based Alternatives (HCBA) Waiver
- Where
- CA
- Status
- Waiting list
- Most it pays
- $5,000 lifetime
- About the amount
- Environmental Accessibility Adaptations (home mods): $5,000 LIFETIME (exceptions if you move or your condition changes significantly). Assistive Technology: $2,500/calendar year, no rollover. Community Transition Services: $5,000 lifetime leaving an institution ($400 if already in a private residence).
- Housing rules
- Residence 'can be privately owned, secured through a tenant lease arrangement, or the residence of a participant's family member.' Home mods in a rental need the OWNER'S WRITTEN CONSENT.
- How long it takes
- Not published. Waitlist letter includes a placement date; incomplete applications get deferred.
- How to apply
- Find your regional Waiver Agency (assigned by county/zip) and request DHCS Form 1320 (HCBA Waiver Application); submit it to secure a waitlist placement date.
- Does not pay for
- Named exclusions: carpeting, roof repair, central air conditioning, and any addition that increases square footage (except when needed for an entrance or wheelchair bathroom).
- Official source
- dhcs.ca.gov
- Last checked
- December 1, 2025