Apply for Age 3 and Older
Intake Department
- Office: (310) 258-4121
- Fax: (310) 338-9597
- Email: intakeoverage3@westsiderc.org
Diagnoses that may qualify a person for Regional Center services include the following developmental disabilities:
- Autism
- Cerebral Palsy
- Intellectual Disability
- Epilepsy
- Conditions closely related to, or that require treatment similar to, that required for an intellectual disability
In addition, to qualify for Regional Center services, a person’s developmental disability must:
- originate prior to age 18
- be expected to continue indefinitely
- be a substantial disability as defined by Title 17, Section 54001 of the California Code of Regulations, meaning the person experiences significant limitations in three or more of the following areas:
- self-care
- language
- learning
- mobility
- self-direction
- capacity for independent living
- economic self-sufficiency
This definition does not include any handicapping condition that is solely psychiatric, solely a learning disability or solely physical in nature. Regional Center criteria is defined by law, in Section 4512 of the California Welfare and Institutions Code.
In addition to meeting eligibility criteria, to qualify for services through Westside Regional Center, the individual must reside in our service area. If the child lives outside of our service area, you can find the individual’s local Regional Center using the Regional Center Lookup or the Regional Center Listings.
Provisional eligibility: Ages 3 to 4
A child who is three or four years of age may qualify for provisional eligibility for regional center services, without needing a diagnosis of developmental disability as specified in W&I Code section 4512(a)(1). Provisional eligibility for regional center services is for a child who demonstrates significant functional limitations in at least two major life activities outlined in W&I Code section 4512(a)(2). A disability solely physical in nature does not meet the eligibility criteria. It is not a requirement of provisional eligibility for a three or four-year-old child to have been served in . Similar to individuals who are eligible pursuant to W&I Code section 4512(a)(1), a child who is determined to be provisionally eligible will have an Individual Program Plan. For information about eligibility criteria, see Lanterman Act Provisional Eligibility.
If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria, click here to visit our Intake Process section to learn how to apply for services
Referrals for Lanterman act services
Anyone can make a referral, including parents, legal guardians or conservators, medical care providers, neighbors, family members, foster parents, and daycare providers. Professionals and concerned persons may make a referral, however, the permission of the parent or legal guardian is necessary. Legally ordered evaluations may come from the courts or the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
Shows what this word means
Eligibility
Eligibility is whether a person can get WRC services. WRC decides it after an assessment.
WRC’s definition
The process to determine whether, and to what degree, an individual has developmental deficits. An assessment identifies the individual’s strengths, abilities, needs, and developmental level.
DDS (Department of Developmental Services)
DDS is the state department that funds and oversees California's 21 regional centers.
WRC’s definition
The Department of Developmental Services. This state agency administers the contracts with each regional center and sets many of the regulatory standards for service. The department also operates state developmental centers.
Early Start
Early Start is free help for babies and toddlers under 3 who have a delay or are at risk of one.
WRC’s definition
Some infants and toddlers may need additional support to help them reach their full potential. These services and supports are available via the Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities.