Question 1

Who qualifies for SDP?

Accepted Answer

The Self-Determination Program in California is for people who are already eligible for Regional Center services. To qualify, a person generally must be eligible for Regional Center services (based on a developmental disability such as autism, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, or similar conditions that began before age 18), be willing to participate in a person-centered planning process, be able to direct their own services or have a family member or representative support them in making decisions, complete required steps like the SDP Orientation and an Individual Program Plan (IPP) meeting, and be willing to work within a budget-based system instead of traditional services.

Question 2

What is a Person-Centered Plan (PCP)?

Accepted Answer

A Person-Centered Plan (PCP) is a document that focuses on the individual's goals, preferences, strengths, needs, and vision for the future. It helps identify what is important to the person, the support they need to be successful, and how services and resources can be used to help them achieve their goals. In the Self-Determination Program (SDP), the Person-Centered Plan serves as the foundation for developing the individual's spending plan and ensures that services and supports are tailored to their unique needs and desired outcomes. It is created through conversations with the participant and the people they choose to be involved in the planning process.

Question 3

What's the difference between an IPP and a PCP?

Accepted Answer

Every Regional Center client has an Individual Program Plan (IPP) — that's required by California's Lanterman Act and is the legal document the Regional Center funds. A Person-Centered Plan (PCP) is a more personal, narrative-driven document developed by you and your facilitator. In SDP, the PCP feeds the IPP — your goals, preferences, and dreams become the basis for what the IPP authorizes.

Question 4

What do you do as Independent Facilitators?

Accepted Answer

As Independent Facilitators, Daniel and Kim support Regional Center clients and their families as they transition into and participate in the Self-Determination Program. We help develop a Person-Centered Plan (PCP) that focuses on the individual's goals, strengths, and needs; explain how the Self-Determination Program works and what options are available; assist families in building services and supports that align with the person's goals; help families navigate the SDP process with the Regional Center; and provide guidance and support as clients begin using their individual budgets and services. The goal of an Independent Facilitator is to help ensure that each person's plan reflects what is important to them and supports their path toward greater independence and opportunity.

Question 5

How much does it cost to work with an independent facilitator?

Accepted Answer

There is no out-of-pocket cost to work with an Independent Facilitator. The Regional Center pays the Independent Facilitator to help with your transition to SDP. Once you are transitioned to SDP, the IF is paid for using the participant's Individual Budget from the Regional Center — not out of pocket by the family.

Question 6

What regional centers do you work with?

Accepted Answer

We currently work with Inland Regional Center, San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center, San Diego Regional Center, and Regional Center of Orange County. Most meetings happen by phone or video, with in-person meetings as needed.

Question 7

How is your SDP budget calculated?

Accepted Answer

Your SDP budget is based on what you are already authorized to receive through your Regional Center before entering SDP. It starts with your existing Regional Center services (what you currently receive or are authorized to receive each year). Those services are converted into a total annual dollar amount, which becomes your Individual Budget. Additional funds may be added based on unmet needs identified in the Person-Centered Plan (PCP).

Question 8

What can I purchase with my SDP budget?

Accepted Answer

With your Self-Determination Program (SDP) budget, you can purchase a wide range of services and supports as long as they meet your goals, are included in your Person-Centered Plan (PCP), and are approved in your spending plan. All purchases are at the discretion of the Regional Center. Common things you can use your budget for include personal care and in-home support (caregivers, respite, personal assistance); skill-building programs (life skills, job coaching, social skills training); community participation supports (activities, inclusion programs, transportation tied to services); educational or vocational supports (training, tutoring, supported employment); specialized equipment or supplies that support independence; technology or tools that help communication, learning, or daily living; and Independent Facilitator services and other planning support.

Question 9

What is a Financial Management Services (FMS) provider?

Accepted Answer

Every SDP participant works with a Financial Management Services provider — a Regional Center–vendored organization that handles the money side of your budget. They pay your providers, run payroll for support staff you employ, file taxes where applicable, and give you monthly statements showing what you've spent. You choose your FMS, and we help you compare options based on the services you'll be using.

Question 10

How long does it take to enroll in SDP?

Accepted Answer

From your first conversation with the Regional Center to your first day using SDP services, the process typically takes 6–12 months. Timelines vary based on your Regional Center, your readiness, and how quickly the Person-Centered Plan and budget are finalized. We help keep things moving.

Question 11

Can my child still keep their current services if we move to SDP?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes — though the way services are funded and delivered will shift. We help you map out your current supports, identify what should carry over, and design a new plan that includes the providers and services that are working for your family.

Question 12

Can we switch back to traditional services if SDP doesn't work for our family?

Accepted Answer

Yes. SDP participation is voluntary, and Lanterman Act rights protect your ability to return to traditional Regional Center services at any time. If you decide SDP isn't the right fit, your service coordinator helps you transition back without losing eligibility for the supports you need.

The questions
families ask us most.

Understanding the Program

Working with an Independent Facilitator

Your Budget & Services

Process & Timing

Still have questions?

The questionsfamilies ask us most.

Still have questions?

The questions
families ask us most.