Pre‑21 Considerations

1. Early Intervention (birth–age 3): Contact the NJ Early Intervention System for therapies such as speech, OT, PT, and developmental supports.

2. Child Study Team Evaluation (school years): Register with the local school district for IEP services tailored to educational, behavioral, and social needs.

3. Medical and Diagnostic Records: Keep updated evaluations from physicians/psychologists; critical for school, state, SSI, and DDD eligibility.

4. Transition Planning (starts at age 14 in the IEP): Ensure post‑secondary goals are included for independence, vocational skills, and community living.

5. Special Needs Trust / Third‑Party Trust: Establish early so relatives and parents don’t accidentally leave assets directly to the child.

6. OBRA/NJ ABLE Account: Open to save for qualified expenses without affecting SSI/Medicaid; can be useful for younger years as well.

7. Guardianship Planning (ages 16–18): Decide whether to pursue guardianship, power of attorney, or supported decision‑making when the child approaches legal adulthood.

8. SSI and Medicaid Application (at age 18): Apply for SSI benefits and Medicaid eligibility, which also begins the pathway to adult services.

9. DDD Intake (18–21): Submit intake application to the NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities; formal eligibility is required for services once the individual exits the school system at 21.

10. Letter of Intent: Document routines, preferences, medications, and hopes for the future for caregivers and trustees.

11. Family Estate Planning: Review wills, life insurance, and make sure all family members direct assets to a trust, not to the child individually.