On the heels of a child with special needs biggest milestone of becoming an adult at eighteen (18) comes the next and arguably more challenging milestone – life after turning twenty-two (22)*. Last November, SNA member Margaret Graham. Esq. discussed challenges and issues to be aware of when your child with special needs turns eighteen. The most significant topics discussed were decision-making, changes in Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) services eligibility, living arrangement supports, and financial protections. If you have not considered those topics, please look at that article for reference.
Education Services Come to an End
While our previous article touched on being aware of education transition, when turning twenty-two, that transition can be one of the most significant for your child and family. Most states’ public school systems will end their required educational services for individuals with disabilities at age twenty-two. Most school systems will offer transition services for those individuals before they turn twenty-two, but it is imperative that planning starts at least two years or more before those services are needed.
The above topics discussed are meant to serve as a starting point in navigating your transition or your child’s transition to an adult looking for assistance with services. For more information, please check out the resource links below or contact the Special Needs Alliance to help find an attorney who can guide you.
