🌟 What Is Self-Direction?

Empowerment Begins Where Limitations End

Self-Direction is a program funded by the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) that gives individuals and families the freedom to design a plan that fits their unique needs, interests, and lifestyle.

Unlike traditional OPWDD services—where agencies decide what supports are provided—Self-Direction puts the individual and their family in control. It allows you to build a personalized plan that truly reflects who you are, what you value, and what helps you thrive in your community.

💡 Clear Definition

Self-Direction is a customizable budget plan that allows people with developmental disabilities to choose the services, classes, and supports that best match their goals and abilities.

Through this program, individuals can hire caregivers, join recreational or educational programs, attend community classes, or access therapies—all while managing their annual budget in partnership with a Broker (like Bright Plan’et) and a Fiscal Intermediary (FI).

It’s all about choice, flexibility, and independence.

💫 Key Benefits

1. Flexibility

You choose how your services are delivered, who provides them, and when. This means your plan grows with your needs and lifestyle.

2. Independence

Self-Direction gives individuals a voice in their daily lives. You decide how to reach your personal goals—from learning new skills to joining community events.

3. Community Involvement

The program encourages meaningful participation in community life. You can use your budget for classes, memberships, camps, or social programs that promote inclusion.

4. Personalized Services

Every plan is unique—built around your strengths, interests, and dreams. Whether it’s art lessons, job training, or fitness programs, your budget supports your individual journey.

👥 Who Qualifies?

To participate in Self-Direction, an individual must first be approved for OPWDD services.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a New York State resident

• Must have an OPWDD-verified developmental disability

• Must demonstrate a need for ongoing support in daily living, community involvement, or independent functioning

• Must be enrolled in Medicaid or eligible for it

🧠 Disability Requirement

Children and adults who qualify typically have a developmental or chronic condition that significantly impacts daily life.

Common qualifying diagnoses include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Intellectual Disabilities

• Cerebral Palsy

• Down Syndrome

• Neurological or genetic disorders affecting independence and learning

The goal is not just to provide care, but to promote personal growth, skill development, and social connection.

💵 Funding Range

One of the most empowering aspects of Self-Direction is its individualized annual budget.

Depending on the person’s level of need and support plan, budgets often range between $50,000 and $150,000 per year.

This funding can cover:

• Caregiver wages

• Classes, workshops, and community programs

• Camps and memberships

• Transportation

• Respite and skill-building services

Each budget is created through a detailed assessment process that evaluates how much support the individual requires to live a fulfilling, independent life.

🗺️ The Self-Direction Process

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to how the Self-Direction process works:

1. Get OPWDD Eligibility Begin by applying for OPWDD services to confirm that you qualify for developmental disability support.

2. Choose a Care Manager Your Care Manager helps coordinate the entire process and connects you to the right professionals.

3. Select a Fiscal Intermediary (FI)The FI manages the financial and administrative parts of your Self-Direction plan, like paying staff and processing reimbursements.

4. Hire a Brokerage — Bright Plan’et This is where we come in! As your Self-Direction Brokerage, Bright Plan’et helps you design your plan, build your budget, and choose the right mix of services.

5. Create Budget & Start Services Once your plan is approved, you can begin using your Self-Direction budget to fund your chosen supports and activities.

🏠 Why Choose Bright Plan’et?

At Bright Plan’et, we’re more than a brokerage—we’re your partners in growth.Our multilingual team (English, Russian, Persian, Spanish, and Hebrew) understands the cultural and linguistic needs of our diverse communities.

We work closely with families to:

• Simplify the approval process

• Build strong, individualized plans

• Connect you to trusted caregivers, programs, and resources

• Ensure your plan evolves as your goals change

With our welcoming Queens office and personalized consultations, we make sure every family feels supported from start to finish.

🌈 The Bright Plan’et Promise

We believe that empowerment begins where limitations end. Through Self-Direction, you’re not just managing a budget—you’re building a future of possibility, confidence, and connection.