What is a waiver?

A waiver is a request to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) asking to temporarily suspend an administrative rule for a specific person or organization because of special circumstances.

When can HHS approve a waiver?

HHS may approve a waiver if all of the following are true:

• The rule causes a hardship for the person or group asking for the waiver;
• Granting the waiver won't affect someone else's rights;
• The rule isn't required by state or federal law; and
• The requestor's health, safety, and welfare will still be protected even if the rule is waived.

Important Notes

• Waivers only apply to HHS rules. They cannot be used to change rules based on federal laws or program eligibility (like income limits).
• The HHS Director makes the final decision. There is no appeals process if the request is denied, but you can ask for reconsideration if you disagree with the decision.
• There is no fee to request a waiver.
• Only ask for a waiver after all other options have been tried.

How to Request a Waiver

Option 1: Fill out the online form: https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/appeals

Option 2: Write a letter and send by:

• Mail: HHS Appeals Bureau
  321 E 12^th Street, 4^th Floor
  Des Moines, IA 50319
• Email: exceptions@hhs.iowa.gov
• Fax: (515) 564-4118

Questions? Call the Appeals Bureau at (888) 723-9637.

What to Include in Your Waiver Request

• Your name and address.
• The name, ID number (State ID, Tax ID or NPI), and birthdate (if needed) of the person or group needing the waiver.
• What the person or group needs.
• Why it's needed (include medical reasons, if any).
• Costs and possible savings.
• What's been tried already.

Extra Information Needed for Certain Requests

For Home Health Agency Requests:

• Needed services, hours, and level of care.
• List of other programs the person uses.
• Breakdown of costs (salary, benefits, mileage, etc.).
• Plan of care or treatment.
• Notes from the past 30 days of care.

If requesting to reduce an overpayment or monthly payment:

• Who lives in your home.
• Your household's monthly income and expenses.
• Why you can't pay the full amount.
• What amount you can afford to pay each month.