Cell phones are scarcely considered a luxury these days; for many people, smartphones are a necessity. You might even be reading this blog post on your iPhone.
Those eligible to participate in the California Self-Determination Program have many potential services to choose from when developing their Individual Program Plans (IPPs). Justifying these services and getting approval from your Regional Center, however, is another story. Many SDP participants want to know whether their Regional Center funds can cover the costs of cell phones, monthly data plans, and related expenses.
The short answer is yes, but we have a lot more information that you might find useful while setting up your Individual Program Plan (IPP). Let’s begin!
Does the California SDP Cover the Cost of a Phone?
The California SDP will generally cover the cost of a cell phone (including monthly lease payments) as long as the Regional Center’s evaluation shows it will help with community integration and functional capabilities for participants. Cell phones fall within the technology services under SDP’s current service definition.
Smartphone applications that provide support for people with developmental disabilities are too numerous to list here. A ton of free or inexpensive apps on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store can help autistic individuals communicate, for instance.
Many cell phones these days also have impressive health tracking capabilities that can alert family members if their loved one has fallen in their home or traveled outside a designated safe area.
Your Regional Center representative or independent facilitator can help you identify ways a cell phone can help you or a loved one who participates in SDP.
Can My SDP Budget Pay for My Phone Plan?
Yes, your Individual Program Plan from the SDP can also pay for monthly phone plans. You might also get SDP funds to cover the costs of individual apps that help you integrate into the community and be as independent as possible.
Furthermore, your budget should cover SDP payments for setup fees and, if needed, technical training for yourself and loved ones.
Requirements & Limitations for Accessing Tech in SDP
The SDP makes it clear that it will only pay for technology—including cell phones and data plans—that other “generic” programs do not cover. In other words, the SDP won’t pay for technology that another government program, like Social Security or Medi-Cal, would cover.
Another reason SDP might not pay for a cell phone plan is that the participant, from their perspective, would not experience gains in function or independence with the technology. Minor participants or those who receive parental support may face difficulties getting cell phones approved in their IPPs.
Get Guidance on Your SDP Spending Plan & Budget with NeuroNav
Through California’s SDP and its use of person-centered plans (PCPs), eligible individuals have countless opportunities to shape their destinies and reach their long-term goals. Engaging with SDP involves a significant amount of technical planning and evaluation, which can be overwhelming for new participants. For instance, identifying things SDP does or doesn’t pay for can be confusing.
An independent facilitator (IF) can help you with every facet of the SDP so you can get the most out of the program. You deserve an experienced and knowledgeable IF, and NeuroNav is here to fill that need. We would be thrilled to discuss your options with a free consultation.
