June 2003 Some information in Planning Now has changed since the guide was published.  We have listed below the changes we are aware of presently. We recommend that you make these changes in your copy of the guide. Other information may have changed that we are not yet aware of so we urge you to verify all information with the various resources noted throughout the guide. Please notify us of any other changes you discover during your planning. We can be reached at 410-333-3688 or 800-305-6441 extension 0 and info@md-council.org.  Updates To Planning Now: Please note: the updates below have all been made to the electronic version of Planning Now that is available on this website. Page 17 Amount of Benefits: The maximum monthly SSI benefit as of January 2003 was $552 for an individual and $829 for a couple. Page 18 Replace the dollar amount in the second paragraph with $184 in the second paragraph because SSI has increased (as noted  above; the maximum SSI payment in 2003 is $184) In the third paragraph replace the first dollar amount with $204 and the second dollar amount with $184 (the maximum SSI payment  plus $20 in 2003 is $204 so therefore the reduction would be $184) The dollar amount in the first three examples should be $204 The dollar amount in example on the top of page 19 should be $184. Page 20 Medicaid: In addition to becoming eligible for Medicaid through DDA's "Home and Community Based Waiver," it is also possible for eligible individuals to access Medicaid through other Medicaid waivers (e.g., Autism Waiver, Attendant Care Waiver). Consult a knowledgeable advocate for details. Page 20 & 21 Amount of income an individual can earn and retain eligibility for SSDI has increased to $800 in 2003. Page 35 Wills: If you decide to revise a will, you should consult a lawyer to assure that your desired changes are made in compliance with  legal requirements to assure that your will is not invalidated. Page 55-56 Tax Issues:  The tax laws in this area have changed significantly and the information contained in this section is no longer  accurate.  The tax laws continue to be in a state of flux.  For further information, contact an attorney or tax professional. Page 72 For Specific information on DDA service providers, including mission and services offered, go to: www.dhmh.state.md.us/dda Page 89 MCIL Resources for Independent Living has changed its name to MCIL Making Choices for Independent Living. Potomac Highlands CIL has changed its name to Resources for Independence Independence Now! has an additional number – 301-277-2839 The following are new Centers for Independent Living: Eastern Shore Center for Independent Living                410-221-7701                                                                                                 410/221-5140 (TTY)                                                                                               800-705-7944        (Dorchester, Talbot, Caroline, Cecil, Kent, Queen        Anne's, Somerset, Wicomico, Worcester Counties)                                Center for L.I.F.E.                                                                301-884-4498                     (Charles, St. Mary's, Calvert Counties) The Freedom Center                                                         301-846-7811       (Carroll and Frederick Counties) Page 90 Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education                   410-859-5400;                                                                                      800# remains the same Parents Place of Maryland                                               410-859-5300;                                                                                      800# remains the same Page 91 Housing:  The MD Department of Housing and Community Development operates the Homeownership for People with Disabilities Program,  which offers low interest rate mortgages.  Contact 410-514-7530 or www.dhcd.state.md.us (click on "Buying a Home"). Legal:Maryland Disability Law Center has merged offices.  Main phone numbers for anywhere in the state are: 410-727-6352;  800-233-7201 Page 93 Public Benefits: In addition to Benefits INFO Source, MCIL (Making Choices for Independent  Living) can also assist with questions about public benefits.  They can be reached at 410-444-1400. Page 99 (Internet sites) Change: Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) is now Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).  Website is now: www.cms.gov Add: Family NET Works            http://www.family-networks.org Interactive website with excellent resources, discussion forums, list serve and information to empower and connect families.  This site has extensive links to other sites. Page 103 Add:The Guardianship Handbook:  A Guide to Adult Guardianship and Guardianship Alternatives in Maryland.  University of Maryland School of Law; Joan Sullivan, J.D., 410-706-3838.