Roy Can Help

A field guide from a dad who's been in the waiting room

Printable Checklists

In short: Printable checklists taken word for word from Roy's pages, one for each stage, ready to check off.

Steps from Roy's pages, ready to print and check off. Every line is taken word for word from the page it links to. The explanations, the traps, and the rules behind each step are on those pages.

Getting into Early Intervention (birth to three)

Straight from Birth to Three. Open that page for the full explanation and the rules behind each step.

  • Call your state's Early Intervention coordinator. No doctor needed.
  • Request an evaluation in writing (email works).
  • The evaluation happens at no cost.
  • If your child qualifies, you get an IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan).
  • Services start within the 45-day window.

Asking for a school evaluation and an IEP

Straight from School Years. Open that page for the full explanation and the rules behind each step.

  • Step 1: Make a written request (this is crucial).
  • Step 2: You'll get an Evaluation Plan.
  • Step 3: The IEP team meets (within 60 days).
  • Step 4: If your child qualifies, you develop the IEP.
  • Step 5: You sign the IEP, and services start as soon as possible.

Ages 14 to 26: what to do when

Straight from Ages 14 to 26. Open that page for the full explanation and the rules behind each step.

  • Age 14-15: Meet with your state's vocational rehabilitation agency (free service).
  • Age 15-16: Ensure the IEP includes measurable postsecondary goals (required by law at age 16).
  • Age 17: If guardianship is needed, file proactively.
  • Age 17.5: Complete and file guardianship paperwork if needed.
  • Age 18 (Before Birthday): Gather original medical records, educational assessments, IEP documentation, and functional assessments.
  • Age 18-19: SSA will mail a redetermination notice.
  • Age 20-21: Before aging out of school services, request the summary of performance in writing.
  • Age 26: If you carry private health insurance, your child ages off your plan at 26 like everyone else's child, unless you document the disability first.

Protecting your child's benefits: when to do what

Straight from Protecting the Money. Open that page for the full explanation and the rules behind each step.

  • Age 0-10: Start the conversation with relatives.
  • Age 10-14: Consult with a special needs planning attorney.
  • Age 14-18: Make sure your attorney-drafted trusts are in place.
  • Age 18+: If a settlement or retroactive SSI back-pay arrives, you may need a first-party trust immediately.

Last updated: October 2026.