The Self-Determination Program is a way for families to have more control over the services their child receives through the Regional Center. Instead of only using traditional vendors, you can choose your own helpers, design supports that fit your child’s real life, and decide how to use your child’s budget.

Any child or adult who is eligible for Regional Center services can join. The program is open to everyone.

Simply tell your child’s Service Coordinator that you want to join the Self-Determination Program. They will help you sign up for the required orientation and explain the next steps.

The budget is usually based on what the Regional Center spent on your child in the past year plus any unmet needs identified in the PCP. If your child has new needs or didn’t get enough services before, the budget can be adjusted.

A spending plan is your family’s plan for how you want to use your child’s budget. You decide what services your child needs, who will provide them, and how much you want to spend in each area.

An Independent Facilitator is someone who helps you understand the program, create your Person-Centered Plan, build your spending plan, and find workers or services.

A parent of a minor child cannot be paid to be the Independent Facilitator. A parent of an adult child can be paid.

A Financial Management Service (FMS) is the company that helps you manage your child’s budget. They pay workers, keep track of spending, and handle payroll and taxes.

Yes, many families hire relatives such as siblings, adult children, or extended family. Parents of minors and spouses have restrictions, but other family members can often be paid.

You can buy almost any service that helps your child meet their IPP goals. This can include social skills support, tutoring, coaching, therapies, community activities, transportation, fitness programs, and more.

You cannot use the budget for rent, food, utilities, or medical services covered by insurance. Everything must be tied to an IPP goal.

Yes. If your child’s needs change, you can update the spending plan at any time.

Yes. You can return to traditional Regional Center services whenever you want.