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PUNS
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PUNS (Prioritization for Urgency of Need for Services) is a statewide database that records information about individuals with developmental disabilities who are potentially in need of services. The State uses the data to select individuals for services as funding becomes available. Services may include:
- In-home supports to help someone with developmental disabilities live more independently
- Respite care to provide temporary relief to a caregiver
- Training Programs to teach life and work skills
- Residential living arrangements
- Adaptive equipment
- Other supports to improve quality of life
How to enroll and what to expect:
To register for PUNS, call Community Alternatives Unlimited (CAU) (773) 867-4000 and ask for intake to talk to someone who can help you with registering. CAU is a PAS/ISC (Pre-Admission Screening/Independent Service Coordination) Agency that serves the north side of Chicago and the Northern Suburbs of Cook and Lake Counties. CAU provides case management services to several populations including individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, mental health needs, and child welfare challenges.
The individual with the developmental disability (along with guardian/caregiver/family) meets face-to-face with a Pre-Admission Screening (PAS)/Independent Service Coordination Agency (ISC). The PAS/ISSA will work with the individual and their family to identify the need for services, explain the services, identify the urgency of the need, and put the individual into one of two categories:
- Planning for services (future)
- Seeking services (now)
CAU is located at:
8765 West Higgins Rd., Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60631
Phone: 773-867-4000
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Frequently Asked Questions
When does PUNS information get updated?
A completed PUNS form does not mean that you are eligible for services and does not guarantee that the services will be provided. The PUNS should be updated at least annually or when a need for service changes. Families should also update the PUNS when family situations change - death in the family, a caregiver losing a job, a major illness, divorce, etc.
How does the PUNS selection work?
Individuals who are on the PUNS list by age 18 will receive funding 60 months after, or by age 23, as mandated by the state.
When will an individual be selected?
PUNS selections are based on funding availability and the ability to fill program vacancies. Selections also coincide with the budget constraints of the state of Illinois. You can send an email including the individual's full name, birth date, and the last 4 digits of their social security number to DHS.DDD.PUNS@illinois.gov to check where your child is on the PUNS list.
How do people know if they get selected?
Individuals selected from the database will receive a letter directly from the Department of Human Services (DHS) announcing their selection and inviting them to apply for services by contacting their ISC Agency. Services can include home-based waivers or Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILA) services.
What if a crisis emerges?
Families should contact their PAS/ISC Agency immediately for available options in their area. Individuals who meet the crisis criteria do not have to wait on PUNS.
