Getting services approved through the Self-Determination Program (SDP) can feel confusing—especially when you already know that certain supports would make a real difference, but aren’t sure how to get them signed off on. Many families worry they’ll say the wrong thing, miss a requirement, or run into delays they don’t understand.
In our recent webinar, “Getting SDP Services Approved: Strategies That Work,” Program Director Suzy Requarth breaks down how SDP approvals actually work and offers guidance on how families can make the process smoother.
We’ve gathered some of the key takeaways, so you can get a clearer picture of why approvals stall and what you can do to avoid delays.
How SDP Service Approvals Actually Work
At the most basic level, your regional center reviews and certifies your spending plan. While that sounds simple, they’re looking for a few specific things when deciding whether to approve services.
First, every service must clearly connect to a need or goal outlined in your Individual Program Plan (IPP). If the connection isn’t obvious, approvals can stall. Being able to explain how each support ties back to outcomes or needs is essential.
Second, regional centers must confirm that the services you’re requesting aren’t available through other funding sources. This is often called the “payer of last resort” rule.
For example, if a service could be covered by insurance, school services, or another program, you may need to show that you tried those options first, sometimes even providing denial documentation to prove it.
Finally, services must fit within approved service definitions and funding rules. If descriptions are vague or incomplete, reviewers may not have enough information to move forward, which can lead to delays or requests for clarification.
Why SDP Approvals Get Delayed
Delays are (obviously) frustrating. However, they are usually tied to a few common issues rather than rejection of the service itself. Here are some factors to watch for:
- Missing or Unclear Information: If a service description doesn’t clearly explain what the support is, why it’s needed, and how it will be used, reviewers may have to send it back for more detail.
- No Connection to IPP: Even when a service seems obviously helpful, the approval process requires that link to be explicitly laid out.
- Spending Plan Doesn’t Match Budget: When a spending plan shows big differences from the approved budget, such as major changes in support hours, regional centers may pause approvals to clarify the actual level of need.
Suzy Requarth emphasizes the need for complete, accurate data. “The more information you can give up front, the easier it's going to be for your regional center to get it through the approval process.”
Practical Tips for Getting Approvals With Less Stress
While every individual’s situation is unique, a few simple strategies can make the process feel more manageable.
Focus on Clarity
When in doubt, always prioritize clarity. Describe supports in plain language and include enough detail so someone unfamiliar with your situation can understand the purpose and benefit of the services you’re requesting.
Connect Support to Goals
Think about how each support connects to goals, safety, independence, or quality of life. When that connection is clear, it’s easier for reviewers to see why the service makes sense.
“The connection to the IPP is so commonly missed…and it’s probably one of the top reasons spending plans get kicked back by the regional center,” says Suzy Requarth.
Stay Organized
Ensuring important information is organized not only reduces your stress but can also help you justify services if questions come up. Keeping notes, documentation, and any relevant letters in one place makes it easier to respond quickly.
Navigating SDP Doesn’t Have to Be a Headache
If there’s one thing to take away from this, it’s reassurance: while the process can feel complicated, understanding how it works makes a big difference. When families know what reviewers are looking for and how to clearly explain support, the path forward becomes more predictable.
If you’re currently working on a spending plan—or planning to in the future—getting a clearer picture of the approval process can save time, ease frustration, and help you advocate more confidently.
But we’ve only scratched the surface. Watch the full webinar for more in-depth guidance, and sign up for NeuroNav’s newsletter to stay in the know about future live events.
Our independent facilitation services take the guesswork out of SDP, helping you navigate the program with clarity and confidence. Schedule a consultation to get started.
