This is the point in your child's life where you will need to proactively secure government assistance for your child. Below are steps to help you.

• Locate possible programs or funding.
  Your IEP coordinator, doctor, school system, and other parents are good resources.
• Determine the most suitable agency that meets your needs.
  Identify the agency that has a mission related to the disability of your child. In addition, it is important to find out which state agencies have the greatest funding. If your child has a dual diagnosis, they may qualify for services through more than one state agency. If this is the case, refer to your state’s budget to determine which agency has the largest resources allocated. You may want to request assistance from an aide in your state legislator’s office to help guide you in the right direction.
• Begin the application process.
  As soon as you identify an agency that is relevant and offers the services you require, ask for an application. If you are uncertain how to complete the application, request assistance from the agency.
• Get organized from the beginning.
  Track submission dates and due dates, and then follow up on these dates.
• Proactively address any barriers to ensure the timely completion of your application.
  If you see gaps in your information, address them by setting up appointments for evaluations or by requesting information that is missing from your files.
• Monitor the application process.
  Follow up with the agency once or twice to see whether there is anything you can do to facilitate the application process. Contact them if a deadline has passed.
• Watch timelines, because prompt sharing of records is important to keep in mind.
  When you are attempting to get an application approved, the date of your application determines all the deadlines for various steps in the process. If you delay applying, the school, local Social Security office, or state agency is no longer under the same time obligations that are triggered by your application date.
• Follow up if a case manager misses their deadlines.
  But make sure you get your necessary paperwork together, so you do not miss deadlines, as well. You can rely on a certain level of responsiveness because most programs have guidelines and regulations that must be followed.
• Be prepared to advocate for specific supports or services that fit the personal vision of your loved one and family.

If you haven't already, we encourage you to begin building out a plan that will carry on and help your loved one with a disability feel fully supported and secure. Download Sequoia's Letter of Intent document to organize this information.