Decoder

Public Benefits

/resources/images/vector.png

Overview

Many of our families benefit from government programs that can help cover the health care and living expenses associated with our children’s disabilities. We’re here to help break it all down!

What benefits are available and who is eligible?

Depending on your income, your child’s age and diagnosis, and other factors, there are many programs you can take advantage of.

Contents


Overview

What benefits are available and who is eligible?

How do I apply for public benefits?

Where do I turn if I am denied public benefits or funding?

Related Topic Decoders

Decoder
Regional Center
/resources/images/vector.png
Decoder
IHSS: In-Home Supportive Services
/resources/images/vector.png
Decoder
Medi-Cal
/resources/images/vector.png
Decoder
Other Public Funding Sources
/resources/images/vector.png
Common Goals
Curated by our research team, Undivided goals provide guidance to make tangible progress on your goals.
Review my NOA from IHSS
Explore if the Self-Determination Program is right for my child.
Request more specialized supervision hours at age 13.
Request specialized supervision/daycare from Regional Center
Request respite hours from Regional Center
See what discounts my family is eligible for
Prepare for annual Individualized Program Plan (IPP) meeting
Submit In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) sick hours as a parent provider
Apply for IHSS and Paramedical Services
Apply for IHSS and Protective Supervision
Apply for IHSS, paramedical services, protective supervision, and parent provider after enrolling in Medi-Cal
Fund early intervention
Transition from Regional Center early intervention to services after age 3
Apply for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) after enrolling in Medi-Cal
Apply for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) paramedical services
Apply for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) protective supervision
Explore Regional Center services
Select an FMS for the Self-Determination Program
Create a person-centered plan (PCP) with my child
Find an Independent Facilitator
Hire a third-party In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) provider
Set up community supports
Apply for Medi-Cal based on household income (not waiver)
Enroll in Medi-Cal using the HCBA waiver

Related Parent Questions

Who is eligible for Medi-Cal?
Eligibility for Medi-Cal is usually based on household income. However, California offers several programs that allow people with disabilities to obtain Medi-Cal if their income is too high to qualify based solely on financial need.
Is my child eligible for Regional Center services after age three?
To be eligible for Regional Center services after age three, a child must have a substantial disability that begins before age 18 and is expected to continue indefinitely.
How do I choose an IHSS provider?
If you are ineligible to be a parent provider, you must hire someone to perform the authorized services.

Latest Resources


Author

Brittany OlsenUndivided Editor

An editor and cartoonist who loves using words and images to simplify and share ideas. She has ten years of experience as a copy editor and lives near Portland, Oregon. She often spends her free time going on nature walks with her dog or trying new bread recipes.

Reviewed by Jennifer Drew, Undivided Senior Editor


Promise Image
Each piece of content has been rigorously researched, edited, and vetted to bring you the latest and most up-to-date information. Learn more about our content and research process here.
A Navigator is your Partner at each turn
Every Undivided Navigator has years of experience supporting families raising kids with disabilities or parenting their own. Partner with an Undivided Navigator for a free Kickstart to learn first hand what support feels like!
tick-icon
Expert-driven content, guidance, and solutions.
tick-icon
Member events and office hours with real answers, plus access to our private parents' group.
tick-icon
Priority to begin a free Kickstart of the Undivided Support System with a dedicated Navigator.
“It’s so helpful to have one place that you can go to get many answers.”–Leeza Woodbury, with Navigator Kelly since 2020
*Currently offering Navigator Kickstarts to residents of California
Beta
Andy AI Search Icon