Last reviewed: June 8, 2026. This is a draft news update for human review before publishing.
Short takeaway
Pennsylvania removed the old $10,000 lifetime limit on Assistive Technology for people in the Consolidated, Community Living, and Person/Family Directed Support waivers, starting January 1, 2026.
Who this may affect
This may matter for families who use an ODP waiver and need communication devices, software, modified equipment, repairs, or other technology that helps a loved one participate at home, school, work, or in the community.
What changed
The old lifetime cap is no longer the main rule for these waiver families. For the Consolidated Waiver, Assistive Technology now has a $3,000 annual limit, and families can ask about a variance process if the need is higher. For Community Living and Person/Family Directed Support waivers, Assistive Technology is counted within the overall annual waiver service limit. Generators still have a separate $5,000 lifetime limit.
What parents can do now
If your child or loved one uses one of these waivers, this is a good time to ask the supports coordinator whether an Assistive Technology evaluation or updated request makes sense. It may help to gather notes about what your child uses now, what is not working well anymore, and what support would make daily life easier.
Why this matters
Technology needs can change as children grow. A communication device may need to be replaced, software may become outdated, or a child may need a different kind of support as routines and goals change. This update may give families more room to plan around current needs instead of being limited by a lifetime cap from years ago.
Source
Read the source update here: Pennsylvania Health Law Project.