The regional centers must work together to make sure your transition to the new regional center is smooth, with no delays or gaps in your services.^[1]Section 4643.5(c). The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has created “Inter-Regional Center Consumer Transfer Guidelines” that say regional centers, clients, families, and service providers should work together before, during, and after you move.^[2]See Supplement G to this manual.

People who transition from one regional center to another should have the same chance to receive services from the new regional center as people already receiving services there.^[3]Supplement G, Guideline 7.

If you are planning to move, ask your regional center for a “pre-transfer planning meeting” as soon as possible.^[4]Supplement G, Guideline 1. Your current regional center, your new regional center, and your service providers will hold in this meeting with you to decide:

• Who is responsible for specific transfer activities,
• The specific responsibilities, and
• When the transfer activities will take place.^[5]Supplement G, Guideline 2.

The pre-transfer planning meeting should make sure you do not have a gap in services and supports, such as nursing care, behavioral support, and supported living services.

For children in foster care or out-of-home placements, county officials and regional centers must make special efforts. They must make sure records are transferred and services continue for these children when they transfer from one regional center to another.^[6]Section 4643.5(d).