In July of 2011, the State of California implemented the
Annual Family Program Fee (AFPF) under section 4785 of the
Welfare and Institutions Code for families of minor children
living at home that requires some families to pay an annual fee
to the Department of Developmental Services(DDS). Your Alta
California Regional Center Service Coordinator will discuss the
program with you if meet the participation conditions
Who Is Required to Participate?
The AFPF only applies to families that meet the following
criteria:
- Your child has a developmental disability or is eligible for
services under the California Early Intervention services Act
[Title 14 (commencing with Section 95000) of the Government
Code].
- Your child is less than 18 years of age.
- Your child lives with his or her parent.
- Your child or family receives services, purchased by the
regional center, other than eligibility determinations, needs
assessment, and service coordination.
- Your child does not receive services through the Medi-Cal
program.
How Is The Fee Determined?
The AFPF share of cost is a sliding fee based on the size
and income of the family. Once it has been determined that a
family meets the program participation requirements, an
assessment by your Service Coordinator is completed. The
fee is $200 per year. However, if the families income is below
the established requirements the fee may be reduced to $150 or
$0. Additionally, there are provision to request an exemption.
How Will Family Pay the AFPF Fee?
Once an AFPF Fee has been assessed the family will pay the fee to
the state Department of Developmental Services by check or money
order. The regional center does not receive your payment.
How Does ACRC Implement the AFPF?
The law creating the AFPF charges the regional center with
informing families of the AFPF program and conducting an
assessment on an annual basis.
Families are informed of the Annual Family Program Fee at Intake
and again when the Individual Family Services Plan (IFSP) or
Individual Program Plan (IPP) is developed.
