What is the Self-Determination Program (SDP)?

The Self-Determination Program in California gives you a new way to get services. Unlike the regular regional center services, SDP puts you in charge. It's built by the Department of Developmental Services to give you more control, allowing you (or your parent/representative) a set budget to pick and pay for the services that best fit your life plan. You get to decide who provides your services and how they're delivered—all while sticking to your yearly budget.

SDP is guided by five key principles:

• Freedom (to plan your life): You have the same rights as anyone else—to pick who helps you, where you live, how you spend your time, and who supports you.

• Authority (over your budget): You get a set budget to use for your goals, and you're in charge of deciding how to spend it.

• Support (for community living): You choose what you need to reach your goals and hire the people who'll help you live your best life in your community.

• Responsibility (in decision-making): You're responsible for how you use your budget and take pride in making decisions for yourself.

• Confirmation (of your role): You have a key role in making your own choices. You and your family get to pick the services and support that help you reach your goals.