How to Qualify
Qualifying for services through California’s Regional Center system is the first step toward receiving support for developmental disabilities. Whether you are seeking services for yourself, your child, or another adult, understanding the process helps ensure you receive the resources you need.
Canaan Cares provides guidance so individuals and families feel confident and supported from the first phone call to full eligibility determination.
Understanding California’s Developmental Disabilities System
California’s service system is operated by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). DDS contracts with 21 nonprofit Regional Centers across the state. These agencies act as the access point for evaluation, eligibility, and service coordination under the Lanterman Act and Early Start.
Regional Centers Provide:
- Diagnostic evaluations
- Eligibility decisions
- Coordination of services
- Development of IPP (Individual Program Plan) for ages 3+
- Referrals to therapies, programs, community supports, and respite
Regional Centers do not deliver the services directly, but they authorize them and work with approved providers like Canaan Cares.
The Lanterman Act: Your Right to Services
The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act is a California law giving individuals with developmental disabilities the right to:
- Services and supports that promote independence
- Person-centered planning
- Community-based programs
- Individual choice and decision-making
- Help to live the most inclusive, self-directed life possible
Eligibility is based on both diagnosis and how significantly the disability affects daily functioning.
Canaan Cares proudly serves California Regional Centers throughout San Diego, Poway, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, El Cajon, Vista, Solana Beach, Encinitas, La Mesa, and Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, and Riverside Counties.
How the Eligibility Process Works
1. Initial Contact
Call your local Regional Center and request an intake appointment.
You can ask for services for yourself, your child, or your dependent adult.
2. Evaluation & Documentation
A team will conduct assessments that may include:
- Medical records
- Psychological evaluations
- Developmental testing
- Interviews with family members or care providers
3. Eligibility Decision
Clinical staff review all reports to determine if the individual meets Lanterman Act or Early Start criteria.
4. Service Planning
If eligible:
- Ages 3+ develop an IPP
These plans outline goals, needed supports, and the services a person will receive.
Canaan Cares can guide families on preparing documentation, understanding evaluation results, and participating effectively in planning meetings.
Contact Numbers: San Diego Regional Center Locations
To begin the eligibility process in your region, contact:
San Diego Regional Center
(858) 576-2996
Regional Center of Orange County
(714) 796-5100
Inland Regional Center
(909) 890-3000
Harbor Regional Center
(310) 543-0100
South Central Los Angeles Regional Center
(213) 744-7000
Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center
(626) 299-4700
Lanterman Regional Center
(213) 383-1300
Westside Regional Center
(310) 258-4000
Families may call any office for support, and staff will direct you to the correct intake coordinator.
Who Qualifies Under the Lanterman Act?
A person may be eligible if they have a substantial disability caused by:
- Autism
- Intellectual disability
- Cerebral palsy
- Epilepsy
- Conditions similar to intellectual disability
A “substantial disability” means major limitations in three or more life areas, such as communication, learning, mobility, self-care, decision-making, or independent living.
No Income Requirement
Regional Center eligibility is not based on income. All assessments, evaluations, and service coordination are provided at no cost to those who qualify. Some services, such as respite or childcare-based supports, may require a Family Cost Participation Program for certain incomes — but eligibility itself is never affected by financial status.
There are many specialty services offered by Canaan Cares. Click here to see all of them.