Get Started

Step 1.Proof of HIV

Whether it's your first time navigating an HIV diagnosis, or you've been managing it for a while, you usually only need to provide proof of HIV diagnosis once. Depending on your provider's system, you might have to share it at each location. Check out the accepted proof details below:

• CAREWare Shared Eligibility Information
• CAREWare lab data
• SDAP/Ramsell card
• Lab work results (from an electronic medical records system, copy sent by clinic, etc.)
• A letter on letterhead signed by medical staff personnel

Step 2.Proof of Income

Our program is here to support individuals with incomes at or below 500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), ensuring assistance reaches those who need it most. The FPL sets clear income guidelines, not just for Ryan White but also for well-known programs like Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as "food stamps". Curious about FPL percentages based on household size and income? Explore more about the Poverty Guidelines on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website.

Learn more about the details on accepted proof of income below:

• CAREWare Shared Eligibility Information
• Current SDAP/Ramsell card or confirmation of application/renewal
• One month’s worth of paystubs with your information (or support person's name)
• Bank statement within the last 30 days
• SSI/SSDI award letter
• Medicaid card or proof of Medicaid coverage
• If you don't have any income or lack proof of income, some providers have specific Zero Income/Income Attestation forms for you to fill out instead. Please check with your provider for their specific requirements.

Step 3.Proof of Insurance

Connecting with and maintaining health insurance coverage ensures you have access to affordable medical care and medications for a healthier life with HIV. Please see the acceptable proof documents below:

• CAREWare Shared Eligibility Information
• Current SDAP/Ramsell card or confirmation of application/renewal
• SSI/SSDI award letter
• Medicaid card or proof of Medicaid coverage
• Copy of insurance card or statement of coverage

If you don't have insurance or lack proof of your insurance, some providers have specific forms to help figure out what insurance coverage you are eligible for. Please check with your provider for their specific requirements.

Step 4.Proof of Residency

Our program supports folks who live in Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, or Jefferson County (known as the Transitional Grant Area or “TGA”). Check the proof documents below to confirm where you live.

Accepted proof of residency documents include:

• CAREWare Shared Eligibility Information
• Current SDAP/Ramsell card with an “M” on the back of the card
• Medicaid card or proof of Medicaid coverage with an indication that it is within the TGA
• An unexpired Colorado driver’s license or state-issued identification card with a current valid TGA address
• Another form of government-issued identification or documentation (e.g., benefits statement) with a valid TGA residential address
• A lease, mortgage, rent receipts, hotel receipts, or other evidence of housing within the TGA
• A utility bill with a TGA service address with your information (or support person's name)
• In instances where you don't have proof of TGA residency due to being unstably housed, undocumented, or facing other barriers, you may provide the following documentation:
  • A signed letter from a person with whom you reside or who provides housing, with the address within the TGA.
  • A signed letter from a case manager or another provider attesting to your TGA residency and explaining the reason for the lack of proof.

If you live outside the TGA, you can find services in your area through the statewide Ryan White Program.

Note: Proof of income, insurance, and residency documents are required annually. If you access services from multiple providers or programs, you may be asked to provide them at each location due to variations in eligibility processes. We're working hard to create a better system and reduce the need for proof documents at each provider. It will take some time and thank you for your patience as we work towards these improvements.

Step 1.State Drug Assistance Program

Also known as “SDAP,” this program helps cover insurance, medications, and HIV medical visit copays. It's not just financial support – having an active SDAP card can also streamline paperwork across other Ryan White programs. Keep your SDAP card handy for easier access!

Ready to apply?

SDAP application page

Step 2.Connect to a Program

Ready to take the next steps in getting connected to care? You can see more details about each provider on our Get Help page. Each program has its own application process, but the eligibility criteria remain largely the same. Keep in mind that some providers may have additional program-specific criteria and we recommend contacting the provider for the most up-to-date eligibility information.

Exciting changes are underway! Stay tuned for an integrated application system that streamlines the process across programs.