Key Steps for Transition Planning

Your child’s rights change at age 18. Legally, you are no longer the decision-maker. As a legal adult, your child is expected to make all decisions, including educational decisions, if they are still in school. It is up to you to evaluate your child’s needs and abilities and to determine how much and what types of support they will need. 

You may have heard about guardianship. This isn’t your only option when planning for your child’s independence. Guardianship is the most restrictive option because it removes most of your child’s rights. Some less restrictive options are:

• Supported Decision-Making Agreement (SDMA) 
• Power of Attorney (POA)
• Representative Payee 
• Medical Release Forms 
• HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) forms 

To determine which works best for your child’s needs, research each option. When considering the less restrictive options, note that you can use more than one option at the same time. 

For further support, know that you can connect to key people and resources. Many people who begin transition planning build a team with the transition experts at school. It’s helpful to know your child’s graduation date and learn about the various graduation options available. It’s wise to implement transition-related goals into their Individualized Education Program (IEP). 

Another great step to take is networking. This could look like attending resource fairs and school functions, and getting to know other parents or people who have been through a transition. Find support and guidance by connecting to parent groups, organizations and Facebook groups. 

As your child begins to transition out of school, it’s critical to think about how your child’s schedule would look without school services. What would that look like? How will those services be funded? Don’t wait until school services are no longer available.

It’s also time to connect with key agencies. Here are three key agencies that you should know about: 

• Your Local Intellectual & Developmental Disability Authority (LIDDA), formerly known as MHMR, is the first step to accessing publicly funded services for people with IDD.
• Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) can help with work and barriers to obtaining employment.  
• Local Centers for Independent Living (CIL) provide services with the goal of promoting independence for people with disabilities. Search here.

Medicaid is an important resource when planning. It is the door to services for people with disabilities. It’s also the funding source for long-term services and supports which includes healthcare, attendant care and nursing.

At age 18, parental income is no longer considered when applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Eligibility is based on disability and the person’s ability to work. Medicaid eligibility comes with SSI eligibility. Medicaid Waivers are essential for long-term care for people with disabilities. They can help with things like attendant care, therapies and supported housing.  Consider other available public benefits. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Section 8 Housing Voucher are examples. 

It’s never too early and never too late to start a plan. Start where you are and accept help. You do not have to do it alone.