Getting Funded

Yes. Passport funding can often be used to pay for support services that help adults with developmental disabilities build independence, participate in their community, and achieve personal goals.

Many families use Passport funding to hire developmental support workers, access community programs, and receive caregiver respite.

This guide explains what Passport funding may cover, what it does not cover, and what you should know before hiring a support provider.

What Support Services Can Passport Funding Cover?

Passport funding is designed to help eligible adults with developmental disabilities access services that improve everyday life and increase community participation.

Depending on your approved funding and current Passport guidelines, eligible services may include:

Developmental Support Workers

Many families use Passport funding to hire Developmental Service Workers (DSWs) who provide support with:

• Independent living skills
• Community participation
• Social and communication skills
• Daily routines
• Life skills development
• Goal-based support

For example, a support worker may help someone learn to use public transit, prepare simple meals, attend a community program, or build confidence while volunteering.

Caregiver Respite

Passport funding may also help pay for respite services.

Respite gives family caregivers time to rest, attend appointments, work, or manage other responsibilities while their loved one receives safe, appropriate support.

Respite may be provided in the home or in the community, depending on the individual’s needs and available services.

Community Participation

Passport funding may help cover support that allows individuals to participate in community life.

Examples include:

• Recreation programs
• Volunteer opportunities
• Social groups
• Skill-building activities
• Community outings

The goal is to help individuals become more active, connected, and independent.

Other Eligible Supports

Depending on your circumstances, Passport funding may also be used for other approved services, such as person-directed planning, certain professional supports, transportation related to eligible activities, and other expenses permitted under current Passport guidelines.

Always check with your Passport agency before purchasing services or submitting claims.

Who Can Be Paid Through Passport Funding?

Families often ask whether they can hire someone they already know.

Passport funding has rules about who can and cannot be paid.

Some family members or trusted individuals may be eligible to provide paid support, while others are not.

These rules can change, so it is important to confirm your specific situation with your local Passport agency before making arrangements.

What Passport Funding Does Not Cover

Passport funding is intended for approved developmental supports. It is generally not used for everyday living expenses.

Examples of expenses that are typically not covered include:

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Groceries
• Household bills
• General home maintenance
• Personal expenses that are unrelated to approved developmental supports
• Items already funded through another government program

If you are unsure whether an expense is eligible, ask your Passport agency before making the purchase.

How Does Payment Work?

In many cases, Passport funding works as a reimbursement program.

You usually pay for an approved service first, then submit your receipts or invoices according to your Passport agency’s claim process.

To avoid delays:

• Keep copies of all receipts and invoices.
• Submit claims before the required deadlines.
• Track your available funding throughout the year.
• Confirm that a service is eligible before paying for it.

Good record keeping makes the process much easier.

Common Mistakes Families Make

Many families experience delays because they:

• Assume every support service is automatically covered.
• Hire a worker before confirming eligibility.
• Lose receipts or invoices.
• Wait too long to submit claims.
• Misunderstand current Passport guidelines.

When you have questions, your Passport agency is the best source for current program information.

How CareVia Support Can Help

Choosing the right support services can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re managing funding, paperwork, and planning for the future.

At CareVia Support, we help families understand their options and build person-centred support plans that focus on meaningful goals.

We can help you:

• Understand how Passport-funded support services may fit your situation.
• Explore independent living and community participation.
• Develop personalized support goals.
• Build practical life skills.
• Promote greater independence and confidence.

While Passport agencies determine funding eligibility and approved expenses, CareVia Support helps families understand the process and make informed decisions about the supports that best meet their loved one’s needs.

Need Help Finding the Right Support?

If you’re looking for personalized developmental support or you’re unsure how Passport funding may fit into your support plan, we’re here to help.

Book a free Family Consultation today and learn how CareVia Support can help your loved one build greater independence through person-centred, goal-focused support.