Discover how California's Self-Determination Program empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to have greater choice, flexibility, and control over their services and supports.
Every individual deserves the opportunity to make choices about their own life, pursue meaningful goals, and receive support that reflects their unique needs and aspirations.
California's Self-Determination Program (SDP) was created with this philosophy in mind.
For individuals receiving services through California's Regional Centers, SDP offers an alternative to the traditional service delivery system, providing greater flexibility in how services are selected, arranged, and delivered.
But what does Self-Determination actually mean, and how does the program work?
What Is the Self-Determination Program?
The Self-Determination Program is a voluntary alternative to traditional Regional Center services that allows eligible individuals and their families to take a more active role in designing and managing their supports.
Rather than relying primarily on services provided by Regional Center-vendored agencies, participants can explore a broader range of qualified providers, businesses, programs, and individualized supports.
Services are funded through an Individual Budget and organized through a Spending Plan, allowing participants to make decisions about how their available funding is used to meet their needs and goals.
The program is built around five core principles:
Freedom: The ability to plan a life and make meaningful choices.
Authority: Greater control over how available resources are used.
Support: The ability to arrange individualized services and supports.
Responsibility: The opportunity to make informed decisions and use resources appropriately.
Confirmation: Recognition that individuals with disabilities are central decision-makers in their own lives.
Together, these principles create opportunities for services to be designed around the individual, rather than requiring the individual to fit into a predetermined service structure.
How Is SDP Different From Traditional Regional Center Services?
Under the traditional Regional Center system, services are generally delivered through agencies and providers that have been vendored by the Regional Center.
While this system offers valuable services, available options may be limited by provider availability, program structures, schedules, and service models.
SDP provides an alternative.
Participants may have greater flexibility to:
Select qualified service providers who best meet their needs.
Hire and manage their own support staff.
Develop individualized schedules and service arrangements.
Explore community-based activities and programs.
Access services that may not be available through traditional Regional Center vendors.
Adjust their supports as their needs and goals evolve.
For example, an individual who needs assistance participating in community activities may be able to hire a Personal Assistance provider to accompany them to activities that align with their interests.
Another individual may choose a combination of employment supports, independent living services, recreational activities, and individualized instruction.
The possibilities are different for everyone because Self-Determination is intended to reflect each person's unique circumstances.
Who Is Eligible for the Self-Determination Program?
California's Self-Determination Program is available to eligible individuals receiving services through a Regional Center.
Participation is voluntary, and individuals must complete the required orientation before entering the program.
Individuals and families interested in SDP can contact their Regional Center Service Coordinator to learn more about eligibility, orientation, and the transition process.
What Is an Individual Budget?
An Individual Budget establishes the amount of Regional Center funding available to support a participant's services during their SDP budget year.
For most individuals transitioning from traditional services, the initial budget is developed using qualifying prior Regional Center expenditures, with adjustments permitted under applicable program rules.
The Individual Budget does not represent unrestricted funds. It must be used for allowable services and supports consistent with the participant's Individual Program Plan (IPP), applicable requirements, and approved Spending Plan.
What Is a Spending Plan?
Once the Individual Budget is established, the participant and their planning team develop a Spending Plan.
The Spending Plan outlines how the available budget will be allocated among the services and supports the participant intends to use.
It may include Personal Assistance, independent living supports, community participation, employment services, recreation, transportation, and other allowable supports.
A well-developed Spending Plan considers both immediate needs and anticipated services throughout the fiscal year.
What Is a Financial Management Services Provider?
Every SDP participant is required to use a Financial Management Services (FMS) provider.
The FMS helps administer the financial aspects of the participant's program, including employee payroll, provider payments, applicable employment requirements, and expenditure reporting.
The responsibilities of the participant and FMS vary depending on the selected FMS model.
Do You Need an Independent Facilitator?
An Independent Facilitator (IF) is an optional support that can help participants navigate the Self-Determination process.
An IF may assist with Person-Centered Planning, identifying appropriate services, developing a Spending Plan, coordinating with providers and the Regional Center, and navigating changes throughout the year.
While an Independent Facilitator is not required, many individuals and families find this guidance valuable, particularly when navigating the transition for the first time.
Is Self-Determination Right for You?
Self-Determination offers meaningful opportunities, but it also comes with responsibilities.
Participants and families may need to coordinate providers, oversee services, review expenditures, and work closely with their FMS.
For those interested in greater flexibility, individualized services, and more direct involvement in decision-making, SDP may offer an exciting alternative to the traditional system.
Your Journey. Your Choices. Our Support.
At Person Centered Planners of Southern California, we help individuals and families explore their options, develop Person-Centered Plans, transition into SDP, and navigate their services throughout the year.
Whether you're just beginning to explore Self-Determination or are ready to take the next step, our team is here to help.
Ready to learn more? Contact us to schedule an introduction call.
