Independent Living Skills Training (ILS) and Support Funding Guidelines


Adults with developmental disabilities require varying levels of assistance with regard to independent living instruction and training. Adult clients who express an interest in acquiring or maintaining the skills that will allow them to live and participate in their community in the least restrictive environment may be provided with independent living skills (ILS) training and supports through regional center funding.

ILS services focus on the following areas:

  • Establishing an independent and safe home environment, including the selection of a home and assistance with moving.
  • Meeting essential personal needs such as home maintenance, meal planning, budgeting.
  • Participation in community life such as mobility, safety awareness and community resources.

Individuals requesting independent living skills training and supports will first have an evaluation completed and must meet the following criteria:

  1. Must be at least 18 years of age or no longer able to participate in programs funded by the public school system.
  2. Must express a willingness to participate in an ILS training program and demonstrate an abilityto learn and perform the needed skills.
  3. Have an identified outcome on their Person Centered Plan related to independent living.

The type of service and support and number of hours is determined by the client’s choice, identified needs based on the evaluation and the individual's natural support system.

  1. In a formal apartment living program, where there is a complete curriculum covering all aspects of community living and the individual resides in a supervised apartment complex, the regional center may purchase up to 105 hours per month of apartment living training. Typically this type of program continues for 18 to 24 months.
  2. For those clients already residing independently, or making the transition to an independent living arrangement, specific outcomes related to the IPP can generally be achieved with 4 to 16 hours of training per month for a duration of no more than 24 months.
  3. In both situations, services and supports must be reviewed every six (6) months and continuation will be based on the individual's progress toward identified outcomes. It is expected that the ILS provider will maintain appropriate documentation as to the individual's progress on goals and objectives and provide the regional center with semi-annual reports to ensure that services are being implement as authorized. Documentation should include objectives and strategies used and should address identified barriers.
  4. In situations where an individual has demonstrated an inability to acquire needed skills, independent living supports may be authorized. Services may include assistance with activities essential to the health and welfare of the individual or assisting with one's personal affairs such as budgeting. Typically this is an ongoing service, authorized up to 12 hours a month on an individual basis.