INDIVIDUALIZED BUDGETING

Click for article Pointers for Families and Individuals Who Want to Manage Their Own Services

John Agosta, disability advocate and writer, provides a review of the components of an individualized budget. He describes how Brokers can assist persons with disabilities and their Circles of Support to understand the system and what to expect from different players (i.e. support brokers, financial supports, etc.). Pay close attention to the sections Start with Person-Centered Planning and an Individualized Budget and Don't Confuse Controlling One's Life with Controlling Operational Details. In order to be Self-Determined, a person with a disability is not required to understand or facilitate all employment regulations, tax laws and so on. Support Brokers will need to advocate on behalf of their employer when this common misunderstanding arises. 
As the above article indicates, individualized budgeting is entirely person-centered. Consequently, each budget will look different not only because the particular amount of money coming in to individuals will differ,  but each individual will want to spend their dollars in ways that support their lifestyle and choices. You should listen and be observant of the needs and preferences of your employers in order to provide them with the supports and financial help they require.

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