Transition Planning Timeline
It’s never too early to being the transition planning process. The timeline below is a useful tool that can keep caregivers informed about the steps required for each age group.
- 1Age 12
- Complete age 12 Assessment (Level 1)
- Apply for OPWDD Eligibility
- Attend OPWDD Front Door Orientation
- Develop an annual Career Plan
- Explore community based leisure or work-based learning opportunities
- SSI/SSDI and Medicaid Programs
- 2Ages 15-16
- Complete Career/Vocational Assessment (annually)
- Obtain Parents Notification: IEP incorporates transition services
- Explore transition services - Attend community transition fairs
- Obtain work related documents: SS card, Birth Certificate, work papers, personal ID (MUST DO BEFORE 21)
- Get parental consent required for agency representation (MUST DO BEFORE 21)
- Begin identifying career interests and post-secondary goals.
- Begin to Self-advocate - Attend and participate in IEP meetings.
- Develop the initial transition plan at the annual IEP meeting.
- 3Age 17
- Explore volunteer or employment opportunities
- Explore housing or residential opportunities
- Investigate supportive community agencies or organizations
- Practice travel, transportation/mobility strategies. Use public transportation.
- Understand guardianship, age of majority issues, and alternatives (BEFORE 18)
- Explore benefits of a Supplemental Needs Trust
- 4Age 18
- Look into Adult Career, continuing education, Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-R)
- Complete IEP transition components; Annual review and update
- Explore volunteer or employment opportunities and transportation to work
- Explore housing or residential opportunities and living arrangements (independent, roommate, group living, etc.)
- Explore supportive community agencies or organizations
- Tour Adult Service Agencies
- Create transportation/mobility strategies – Explore assistive technology options
- Begin financial planning – understand how savings can impact benefits
- Explore opening a NY Able Account
- Discuss post school options like education, career, technical training, college
- Apply for college (MUST DO BEFORE 21)
- Reapply for SSI, as needed (MUST DO BEFORE 21)
- Inform insurance company of disability status
- Explore adult healthcare options and health insurance rider to continue eligibility
- Apply for Driver’s License, Non-Driver’s ID Card, Para Transit Application
- ALL Males register for Selective Service
- Register to Vote