Subash Rajavel

California's Self-Determination Program (SDP) gives families something powerful: a budget you control and the freedom to choose the supports that fit your family. But here is the reality many families run into. The money is approved, the plan is in place, and yet at the end of the year a large chunk of the budget goes unused. If you have ever wondered whether you are actually using everything your loved one is entitled to, you are not alone. This guide walks you through how to fully utilize...

California's Self-Determination Program (SDP) gives families something the traditional service system does not: the authority to choose their own providers, set their own budget priorities, and run supports the way that fits their life. But that freedom comes with more responsibility, and for many California families weighing the two paths, the honest question is, "Which one is actually right for us?" If you are supporting a person with a developmental disability and trying to decide between...

One of the most common questions families ask when they first join California's Self-Determination Program (SDP) is simple: What can I actually spend this money on? And it is a fair question. After months of orientation, Person-Centered Planning, and Regional Center meetings, you finally have a budget — and now you want to make it count. Financial Management Services (FMS) are required to help you execute your spending plan, but first you need to know what is on the menu. This guide walks...