For Self-Determination, can a family member be paid as a respite provider without going through an agency?

Yes, it is possible for a family member be paid for respite services without being affiliated with an agency if your child receives Regional Center services through the Self-Determination Program.

If your respite provider lives in same household as your child, you don’t typically have to do a background check. However, keep in mind that different FMS organizations have different protocols for what they’d like for background check.

For more information about SDP services, see our article Self-Determination Program (SDP) 101. You can also check out Respite and Specialized Supervision 101 and Finding Child Care for Kids with Extra Support Needs.