Looking ahead
Teen & adult planning
Transition planning should begin by age 16 in most states — sometimes earlier. Housing, employment, guardianship, and long-term care all require more lead time than they appear to.
The 30-second version
- Transition planning must appear in the IEP by age 16 — your school is legally required to include it.
- Guardianship is not the only option — supported decision-making is a legal alternative in most states.
- Adult Medicaid waivers have their own waitlists — apply before your child turns 18.
- Vocational rehabilitation services are free and can start while still in school.
Transition planning in the IEP
Under IDEA, transition planning must be included in the IEP by age 16 (some states require it earlier). Transition goals should address post-secondary education, employment, and independent living based on your child's strengths and goals.
If your child is approaching 16 and their IEP doesn't mention transition, raise it in writing at the next meeting. Ask specifically: "What vocational assessments have been done, and what community-based activities are being considered?"
Guardianship — and the alternatives
At 18, your child becomes a legal adult. Many families assume guardianship is the only option — it is not.
Supported decision-making allows an adult with disabilities to make their own decisions with support from trusted people, rather than transferring legal authority to a guardian. It's available in most states and preserves more rights. Consult a disability rights attorney or your state's Protection & Advocacy organization before filing for guardianship.
The adult services gap
IDEA services end at age 22. Adult services — Medicaid waivers, vocational rehab, supported employment — are in a different system that requires separate applications and often has long waitlists.
Apply for adult Medicaid waivers before age 18. Starting the application early doesn't mean services start early — it means you're in the queue when your child needs them.
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Who helps with this?
The law
Federal
Vocational rehab, SSI redetermination at 18, ADA protections at work.
The system
Your state
Your state's VR agency, DD authority, and post-secondary transition programs.
Add your location above to see state-specific resources.
The people
Your area
Adult day programs, supported-employment providers, and housing navigators.
Set your county to see local help.
Primary sources