If you are taking care of a child with a disability like autism, you could qualify for financial benefits as an In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) provider. In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a California government program that provides economic support for in-home caretakers of impaired elders, persons with disabilities, and children with developmental disabilities. But what if you already get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)? Can you still get IHSS too?

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When you find out that your child is eligible for special education services, an Individualized Educational Program (IEP) must be put in place. At the IEP meeting, the decisions regarding special education and related services are made so that an individualized educational plan can be created. But how do you prepare for your first IEP meeting?

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It is estimated that it costs a family $1.4 million to $2.5 million to raise a child with autism, studies say. This compares to the average cost to raise a child who does not have special needs, which is around $300,000. It’s understandable then, that more than forty percent of families with a child with autism report experiencing significant financial stress. Many parents find that they cannot hold a full-time job at all. So what financial help can you get for your child with autism?

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As a parent of a child with special needs like autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or another disability, it can be difficult to find the best resources, especially if we are in the midst of a difficult time or a new diagnosis. And since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been especially tough with schools transitioning to online education, basically cutting out their special education programs altogether. If you have In-Home Support Services (IHSS), and you haven’t maxed out your hours, this could qualify you for more.

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Even when you do not have children, going through a divorce is emotional and difficult. When you have a child with special needs, it seems like the process is even more complicated. Many parents feel alone and powerless, facing the challenges of taking care of your child’s health, education, and long-term planning for the future all by yourself. So how do you survive a divorce with a child with special needs?

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