If your family member has an intellectual or developmental disability and lives in New Jersey, the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) may be able to fund the support services they need to live, work, and participate in their community. But understanding what DDD offers, how to access it, and which providers serve your county takes time — especially if you’re navigating this for the first time.
This guide is for NJ families in Essex, Hudson, Bergen, and surrounding counties who want to understand DDD services and how to connect with them in 2026.
What Is NJ DDD?
The New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) is a state agency that funds and coordinates community-based support services for eligible adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DDD operates under the NJ Department of Human Services.
Eligible individuals receive services through managed care organizations called Support Coordinators, who help build a person-centered plan and connect individuals with approved service providers.
Who Is Eligible for NJ DDD Services?
DDD eligibility generally requires:
- New Jersey residency
- A qualifying intellectual or developmental disability (including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, Prader-Willi syndrome, or other eligible conditions)
- Diagnosis established before age 22 (developmental disability standard)
- Medicaid enrollment (required for most DDD-funded services)
Eligibility is determined through a formal application and assessment process managed by your county DDD office.
Types of DDD-Funded Services
DDD funds a wide range of supports depending on individual need and the level of funding approved. Common services include:
Community Living:
- Supported Living Arrangements (SLA)
- Community Residential Services (group homes)
- Family Care (living with an approved host family)
Day and Employment Supports:
- Supported Employment — job coaching and placement assistance
- Day Habilitation — skill-building in community or center-based settings
- Career Planning and exploration
In-Home Supports:
- Personal Supports (in-home assistance with daily tasks)
- Respite care for family caregivers
- Behavioral support services
- Assistive technology
Supports Program:
The Supports Program provides individualized funding (typically a managed care budget) for adults who live with family or independently and need flexible, self-directed support services.
NJ DDD Supports Program vs. Community Care Program
Supports Program: Designed for individuals living at home with family or independently who need periodic supports. Funding is flexible — individuals and families can choose from approved providers and self-direct some services. Typical services include day programs, job coaching, and in-home personal support.
Community Care Program: Provides more intensive residential and day supports for individuals who cannot safely live at home without substantial daily assistance. Includes group homes and supported living arrangements.
Most families in Essex, Hudson, and Bergen County start with the Supports Program if their family member lives at home.
How to Apply for NJ DDD Services
1. Contact your county DDD office — Essex County: (973) 648-3207 | Hudson County: (201) 915-3620
2. Submit a DDD eligibility application — available at nj.gov/humanservices/ddd
3. Undergo an eligibility determination — DDD reviews medical records and documentation
4. Complete a Supports Needs Assessment (SNA) — determines the level of funding
5. Work with a Support Coordinator — helps develop your Individual Support Plan (ISP) and connects you with providers
Waitlists exist for some programs. Applying early is strongly recommended.
Priority Groups NJ — DDD Provider in Essex, Hudson, and Bergen County
Priority Groups NJ is an approved NJ DDD service provider serving families across northern New Jersey. We provide Supports Program services including in-home personal support, day habilitation, and community integration supports.
Counties served: Essex, Hudson, Bergen, Passaic, and Union County
Services available through DDD:
- In-home personal support for adults with IDD
- Community integration and social skills development
- Assistance with daily living skills (cooking, hygiene, transportation)
- Job exploration and supported employment coordination
What families tell us: Our team takes time to match individuals with DSPs (Direct Support Professionals) who are a good fit — same person, consistent schedule, building a real relationship over time.
Starting the Process — What to Expect
DDD enrollment can take several months. Here’s a realistic timeline:
- Week 1–2: Submit eligibility application and gather documentation
- Month 1–3: Eligibility determination and Supports Needs Assessment
- Month 3–6: Individual Support Plan (ISP) development with Support Coordinator
- Month 6+: Services begin once ISP is approved and providers are selected
Priority Groups NJ works with families at any stage of this process. If you’re already enrolled in DDD and looking for a new provider, the transition is typically faster.
Ready to Connect?
Whether you’re starting the DDD application process or already enrolled and looking for a provider in Essex, Hudson, or Bergen County, Priority Groups NJ is ready to help.
Call: (201) 305-0936
Website: prioritygroupsnj.org/njddd/
Office: Newark, NJ — serving all of northern New Jersey
We’ll answer your questions, explain the Supports Program, and help you get connected with the services your family member needs.