Practical Links forFamilies in California
This resource hub is structured to grow over time. Start with the key statewide links below and check back for additional supports.
IHSS for Children
IHSS is a county-administered California program that can pay for in-home care so a child or adult with a disability can remain safely at home.
Visit IHSSHow to apply for IHSS through your county office
- 1Submit an IHSS application to your county IHSS office (the SOC 295 application is commonly used).
- 2Complete the county intake interview process by phone, online, or in person.
- 3Have your provider complete the county-required health care certification form by the deadline.
- 4Participate in the in-home needs assessment and clearly describe daily care and safety risks.
- 5Review your Notice of Action (NOA) for approved services and monthly hours.
- 6If you agree, enroll and hire a provider, then begin timesheet submission.
- 7If you disagree, request reassessment and/or appeal within the NOA deadline.
SSDI Application (SSA)
SSDI is a federal Social Security benefit for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, including some adults disabled since childhood on a parent's record.
Visit SSA ApplicationHow to apply for disability with SSA
- 1Start the disability application online through SSA or call to apply by phone.
- 2Complete the main application and Adult Disability Report with condition and treatment details.
- 3Submit requested supporting documents, including identity and medical release forms.
- 4Respond quickly to follow-up letters, forms, or consultative exam requests.
- 5Track your application status and keep copies of all submissions.
- 6If approved, review the award letter for benefit details and start dates.
- 7If denied, file an appeal by the listed deadline.
Regional Centers
Regional Centers coordinate services for Californians with developmental disabilities, and families can self-refer for intake and eligibility evaluation.
Visit Regional CentersHow to request a Regional Center eligibility evaluation
- 1Identify your local Regional Center and submit a request for intake (self-referral is allowed).
- 2Complete intake and consent forms so records can be reviewed and evaluations can begin.
- 3Provide records such as diagnoses, school evaluations/IEP documents, and therapy notes.
- 4Participate in requested assessments by the Regional Center or referred providers.
- 5Review the written eligibility decision and start an IFSP/IPP if eligible, or request appeal guidance if needed.
CA Voice Options AAC Device Program
Voice Options is a California program that can provide eligible residents with a speech-generating device and training through local program providers.
Visit Voice OptionsHow to apply for a Voice Options AAC device
- 1Find a local Voice Options provider and schedule an orientation or device demonstration.
- 2Attend orientation and participate in the speech-generating device (SGD) demonstration.
- 3Complete a short-term trial if offered to test which device and setup work best.
- 4Work with the provider to select the device and complete required eligibility paperwork.
- 5Receive the SGD and complete training for the user and caregivers.
- 6Keep copies of all paperwork and training notes for school, therapy, and support planning.
Medi-Cal Mileage Reimbursement (Modivcare)
Families enrolled in Medi-Cal managed care may qualify for mileage reimbursement for approved travel to covered medical appointments through non-emergency transportation services.
Visit ModivcareHow to request mileage reimbursement through Modivcare
- 1Contact your Medi-Cal health plan or Modivcare to confirm reimbursement rules before travel.
- 2Track each covered appointment and keep trip confirmation details.
- 3Have required trip documentation signed after each qualifying visit.
- 4Submit the reimbursement paperwork within the required timeline.
Waiver Personal Care Services (WPCS)
WPCS can provide additional personal care hours for Medi-Cal members enrolled in the HCBA Waiver and is coordinated through waiver agencies and care management.
Visit WPCS DetailsHow to request WPCS hours under the HCBA Waiver
- 1Ask your HCBA Waiver Agency or care manager if WPCS is available for the member's needs.
- 2Request WPCS be added to the member's HCBA menu of health services.
- 3Complete required assessments and documentation about care tasks, schedule, and safety needs.
- 4Choose a qualified provider and complete any required provider enrollment steps.
- 5Finish payroll/timesheet setup and any additional program requirements.
- 6Begin authorized services and submit timesheets while maintaining care logs for reassessments.
More Resources Coming
We are actively expanding this page with school support, therapy guidance, and family advocacy links.