7 Steps for Parents and Guardians
1. 3 is a magic number
If your child is under 3 years of age, you should contact your local First Steps program for your county.
2. Waivers
Medicaid Waivers provide funds regardless of a family’s income. There are multiple waivers that can cover some services and supports (outside of traditional Medicaid).
3. Ages 3-21
Contact your local school district to discover your options. It is important to know the rules and regulations in Indiana regarding special education.
4. Public Insurance
There are several forms of public insurance that may be available to you. These include Medicaid, Medicaid Disability and Children’s Special Health Care Services.
5. Social Security
Social Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that makes monthly payments to people with low income who are disabled.
A child may qualify.
6. Sophomore year of high school
Vocational Rehab should be contacted during the sophomore year of high school. Parents are encouraged to attend the initial meetings with VR.
7. Before 18th birthday
Guardianship or Power of Attorney should be obtained before the 18th birthday. Parents should start exploring the various guardianship options and begin the process at age 17.
BONUS! Get organized
Create a system to keep your medical records, billing information, IEPs, and other important documents. Include a record of treatment options you try and how your child responds. Keep a log of the people you’ve contacted.
Additional resources to help you on your journey
ADEC
Has been providing services and supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1952. Services include Residential (Group Homes and Supported Living), Employment Services (Employment Services, Skills Training, Project SEARCH, and Pre-ETS), Day Services (at 5 locations), Child and Family Services (Summer Camp and After School), Therapies (Recreational Therapy, Music Therapy, and Behavior Management).
Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS)
A division of FSSA which provides services for individuals with developmental disabilities. BDDS assists individuals in receiving community supports and residential services. Be sure to keep the BDDS office notified if you move or if you have any changes in your household. If you live in Elkhart or St. Joseph counties, you are in District 2. 401 E. Colfax Ave, Suite 270, South Bend, IN. Or phone: 877.218.3059
Waivers
In Indiana, there are multiple waivers, and you can get one based on the type of disability (medical or developmental) and level of care your child needs. Waiver services can cover some services and supports that are not available under traditional Medicaid. Upon diagnosis of an intellectual or developmental disability, a guardian should apply for a Medicaid Waiver.
Social Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a federal program that makes monthly payments to people with low income who are disabled. A child may qualify if they meet Social Security’s definition of disability for children, and your family has limited income and resources.
First Steps
If your child is under 3 years of age, you should contact the First Steps program for your county. The phone number for the local First Steps Coordinator may be obtained by calling 1-800-441-7837.
Navigating the Course: Finding Your Way through Indiana’s Special Education Rules
If your child is between 3-21 years of ages contact your local school district to find out about options in your area. It is important that you understand the rules and regulations in Indiana regarding Special Education. A guide to help you learn about this is Navigating the Course: Finding Your Way Through Indiana’s Special Education Rules
Public Insurance
There are several forms of public insurance that may be available to you depending on your family’s situation. Medicaid, Medicaid Disability and Children’s Special Health Care Services are all programs to check into for possible coverage of medical expenses.
