How to Prepare for Your IPP Meeting

The Individual Program Plan (IPP) meeting is one of the most important opportunities you have to shape the services and supports your loved one receives. Yet many families go into these meetings unsure what to expect or how to advocate effectively. This guide will help you prepare for a successful IPP meeting.

What is an IPP Meeting?

The IPP meeting is a person-centered planning session where you, your loved one, the Service Coordinator, and relevant service providers discuss goals, needs, and the services to support them. By law, IPP meetings must happen at least once a year, though you can request additional meetings when circumstances change.

The IPP document that results from this meeting becomes the official plan that authorizes services. If a service isn't in the IPP, it generally can't be provided.

Before the Meeting

Review the Current IPP

Look at the existing IPP at least two weeks before your meeting. Note which goals were achieved, which are still in progress, and which need to be revised. Consider what's working well and what isn't.

Identify Goals and Priorities

Think about what your loved one wants for their life. Where do they want to live? What do they want to do during the day? What skills do they want to develop? What supports do they need to be safe and healthy?

Write down 3-5 priority goals to focus on during the meeting. Having clear priorities helps keep the discussion focused and productive.

Research Available Services

Understanding what services exist can help you ask for what your loved one needs. Common services include Independent Living Services, Supported Living Services, day programs, respite, behavioral support, and transportation.

During the Meeting

Center the Individual

The person with a disability should be at the center of their own planning meeting whenever possible. Encourage their participation, ask for their input, and ensure their preferences are heard and documented.

Be Specific

Vague goals lead to vague services. Instead of "improve daily living skills," try "learn to prepare three different meals independently within six months." Specific, measurable goals make it easier to track progress and hold providers accountable.

Ask Questions

Don't leave the meeting with unanswered questions. Ask about timelines, waiting lists, provider options, and what happens if services aren't working. Take notes or bring someone to take notes for you.

Don't Sign Immediately

You have the right to take the IPP home and review it before signing. Use this time to ensure everything discussed is accurately documented and all agreed-upon services are included.

If You Disagree

Sometimes Regional Center may deny a service request or propose something you disagree with. You have rights in this situation:

• Ask for the denial in writing with specific reasons
• Request to speak with a supervisor
• File a fair hearing request to appeal the decision
• Contact Disability Rights California for advocacy support

After the Meeting

Review the final IPP document carefully before signing. Make sure all discussed services, goals, and timelines are accurately documented. Keep a copy for your records and share relevant portions with service providers.

Monitor progress throughout the year. If services aren't being provided as planned or needs change significantly, you can request an IPP meeting at any time, not just the annual review.

Remember, you are an essential member of the planning team. Your knowledge of your loved one's needs, preferences, and history is invaluable. Don't hesitate to advocate strongly for what they need to live their best life.