Chapter 5: Who Pays for What?
When someone chooses Supported Living, they are responsible for their own living expenses like rent or mortgage, utilities, groceries, and home supplies. Here’s a simple breakdown of what costs are covered by whom and what financial supports are available:
Individual Responsibilities:
- Housing Costs: The person in Supported Living pays for their own housing and utilities.
- Household Needs: They also cover groceries and any other household necessities.
Service Provider Responsibilities: If the person or their family member is not the Employer of Record (EOR), the service provider handles the payment of staff wages and benefits.
Financial Supports Available:
- Innovations Waiver Services: May cover some costs related to setting up a home, like security deposits or essential furnishings.
- Assistive Technology Equipment and Supplies (ATES): This can help pay for items that promote safety or independence.
Community Transition Service: This service helps with initial costs when moving from a more restrictive setting (like a group home) to a Supported Living arrangement. It can include expenses like security deposits and setup fees for utilities.
Managing Finances: Many individuals in Supported Living receive income from sources like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). A representative payee, often a family member or a guardian, may help manage these funds and ensure financial eligibility for continued benefits.
Note on Budgeting: It’s crucial to maintain a secure management of financial tools like bank cards and ensure transparency during transactions. Regular budget planning is important to make sure the individual can afford their ongoing and planned expenses.
