Financial Management Services (FMS)
Financial Management Services (FMS) is a vital support within California's Self-Determination Program (SDP), designed to help individuals with developmental disabilities and their families manage the funds allocated for their personalized services and supports. The FMS ensures that participants remain in compliance with state regulations while maintaining flexibility and control over their spending.
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FMS Selection:​
1. DDS FMS Contact List
​The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) oversees the Self-Determination Program (SDP) and establishes guidelines for Financial Management Services (FMS) to ensure effective management of participant budgets. DDS sets statewide policies and standards for FMS providers, ensuring they comply with Title 17 regulations and meet program requirements. Phone: 833-421-0061; Email: info@dds.ca.gov
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2. Autism Support Community FMS Contact List
Autism Support Community in partnership with The Independent Facilitator Network has created a detailed list of information for financial management services. The information is updated quarterly by reaching out to the financial management services. This is informational only, be sure to verify with the financial management service as policies do change! Phone: 818-850-2372; Email: info@autismsupportcommunity.org
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What A FMS Does In SDP ​
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Funds Management
The FMS tracks the individual budget approved by the regional center. It monitors spending to ensure it aligns with the participant’s Individual Program Plan (IPP) and complies with SDP guidelines. -
Payroll Services
The FMS handles payroll for employees hired by the participant, such as caregivers or service providers, ensuring timely payment while managing taxes, workers' compensation, and other employment requirements. -
Invoice Processing
Service providers submit invoices directly to the FMS, which reviews, approves, and processes payments on behalf of the participant. -
Record-Keeping
The FMS maintains detailed financial records, providing monthly or quarterly reports to participants and the regional center, ensuring transparency and accountability. -
Advisory Role
While the participant makes decisions about how to use their budget, the FMS acts as a guide, helping ensure expenditures meet SDP guidelines
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How It Works
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Selection of an FMS: Participants choose an FMS provider from a list of vendors approved by their regional center.
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Individualized Budget: The regional center allocates a budget based on the participant’s IPP goals.
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Spending Plan: The participant, often with the help of their Independent Facilitator (IF), creates a Spending Plan outlining how the budget will be used for services and supports.
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FMS Oversight: The FMS executes the Spending Plan, handling the financial and administrative aspects of managing the participant’s services.
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Importance in SDP
An FMS enables participants to focus on achieving their goals by reducing the administrative burden of managing funds, ensuring compliance, and offering peace of mind regarding financial accountability. This service plays a critical role in empowering individuals to take control of their own supports while remaining aligned with SDP regulations.
