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Centers for Independent Living (Rehabilitation Act Title VII)

Federal grant program funding a nationwide network of 403 consumer-controlled, community-based Centers for Independent Living (CILs) delivering five mandated core services to individuals with significant disabilities: information and referral, independent living skills training, peer counseling, individual and systems advocacy, and transition services. CILs operate under Title VII Parts B and C of the Rehabilitation Act and are administered by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) following the 2014 WIOA transfer from the Department of Education.

Five mandated core services delivered at no charge through local CILs: (1) Information and referral — connects individuals to community resources, LTSS programs, Medicaid HCBS, housing, transportation, and assistive technology; (2) Independent living skills training — practical instruction in daily living competencies (budgeting, self-care, use of assistive technology, navigating community services); (3) Peer counseling — individuals with disabilities share experiences, coping strategies, and community resource knowledge; (4) Individual and systems advocacy — helps consumers assert rights, navigate appeals, and advocates for policy change; (5) Transition services — facilitates movement from nursing homes and other institutions to community settings, prevents unnecessary institutionalization, and supports youth with disabilities transitioning to adulthood. CILs also offer personal assistance referrals, housing assistance, transportation coordination, and independent living plan development. Services vary by CIL and local funding. Part B state grants (ALN 93.369, FY2026 active) support state-level IL service expansion; Part C CIL grants (ALN 93.432, FY2025 active, ~$119–170M/year) fund direct center operations. Find your local CIL at acl.gov/programs/centers-independent-living/list-cils-and-spils or via the Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116).

Some details for this program are still being verified. Check the official source for the most current information.

Eligibility

  • Applicant must have a qualifying disability

Services

Five mandated core services delivered at no charge through local CILs: (1) Information and referral — connects individuals to community resources, LTSS programs, Medicaid HCBS, housing, transportation, and assistive technology; (2) Independent living skills training — practical instruction in daily living competencies (budgeting, self-care, use of assistive technology, navigating community services); (3) Peer counseling — individuals with disabilities share experiences, coping strategies, and community resource knowledge; (4) Individual and systems advocacy — helps consumers assert rights, navigate appeals, and advocates for policy change; (5) Transition services — facilitates movement from nursing homes and other institutions to community settings, prevents unnecessary institutionalization, and supports youth with disabilities transitioning to adulthood. CILs also offer personal assistance referrals, housing assistance, transportation coordination, and independent living plan development. Services vary by CIL and local funding. Part B state grants (ALN 93.369, FY2026 active) support state-level IL service expansion; Part C CIL grants (ALN 93.432, FY2025 active, ~$119–170M/year) fund direct center operations. Find your local CIL at acl.gov/programs/centers-independent-living/list-cils-and-spils or via the Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116).

How to apply

Apply online or find more information at the official program page.

  • adrc-no-wrong-door (companion): ADRCs/No Wrong Door are often co-located or partnered with CILs for LTSS navigation