Supported Living Services in California: Costs, Funding & How It Works
Supported Living Services (SLS) help adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities live safely and independently in their own homes. In California, SLS is one of the most important and widely used services offered through the Regional Center system. Families often ask about costs, funding eligibility, and how the process works, so this guide breaks everything down clearly.
What Are Supported Living Services?
Supported Living Services offer personalized, in-home support, allowing adults with disabilities to live in apartments, shared homes, or family homes while receiving assistance tailored to their unique needs.
Support may include:
Personal care
Meal preparation
Medication reminders
Safety and supervision
Community integration
Transportation
Budgeting and household management
How Much Do SLS Services Cost?
Here’s the best news:
There is no cost to the client or their family.
In California, Supported Living Services are fully funded by the Regional Centers through the Purchase of Service (POS) authorization. Clients do not pay out of pocket.
This funding covers:
Caregiver wages
Support staff hours
Emergency on-call availability
Planning and case coordination
Person-centered support plans
Who Is Eligible for SLS in California?
To qualify, a person must:
Be 18 years or older
Have an intellectual or developmental disability
Be a client of a Regional Center
Express a desire to live independently
Live (or plan to live) in an appropriate home setting
Regional Centers like VMRC, NBRC, and SARC determine the individual’s support level.
How to Start Supported Living Services
The process is simple:
Speak with your Regional Center Service Coordinator.
Request Supported Living Services (SLS).
The coordinator creates or updates your IPP.
A POS (Purchase of Service) authorization is issued.
You are referred to an SLS provider like Feel At Home Services.
A meeting is held to create a personalized support plan.
Services begin once the plan is approved.
Why SLS Matters
Supported Living allows individuals to live with dignity, independence, and choice — while still having the support they need to stay safe and thrive.
