Home · Newly Diagnosed · Step 4 of 10
Contact Your State Program — Today
If your child is under 3 years old, you need to contact your state's Part C Early Intervention (EI) program immediately. Under IDEA Part C, states must identify, evaluate, and serve infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. Once you make a referral, the state has 45 calendar days to complete an evaluation and develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). Services are provided in your child's "natural environment" — your home, daycare, or community settings. If your child is 3 or older, the school district becomes responsible. Write a letter to the Director of Special Education in your local school district requesting a comprehensive evaluation. Use the phrase "I am requesting an initial evaluation under IDEA Part B for my child" — this is the legal trigger. The district then has 60 calendar days (in most states) to complete the evaluation. Send the letter by certified mail or email with a read receipt so you have proof of the date. Do not wait for a doctor, teacher, or anyone else to make this referral. Any parent can self-refer. The clock starts the day the district or EI program receives your written request. Every day you delay is a day your child is not receiving services they are entitled to.
IDEA timelines are strict: 45 days for EI (Part C) and 60 days for school evaluations (Part B). Every day you wait is a day subtracted from your child's access to services.
Before paying, sharing records, or signing forms with any provider, verify credentials, payer authorization, service location, session documentation, and complaint rights. Waive Help's authenticated directory and assistant can help you turn this step into a cited call script.