Human Subjects Research Training: "Protecting Human Subjects" -

For individuals with intellectual disabilities, developing money capability goes far beyond the realm of your basic financial literacy. Guardians, payees, providers, Medicaid, Social Security, resource limitations - there's a LOT more to consider here. 

Money capability should not be optional. It should be a standard component of our initiatives toward achieving greater independence and improved quality of life. The good reasons are endless, but here are a few ways that fostering money capability in HCBS settings has positive contributions to persons served, families, employees, communities and society as a whole:

1. Enhanced Autonomy: Gaining money management skills empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities to make their financial decisions, promoting self-determination and reducing reliance on others.
2. Daily Living Skills: Money capability equips individuals with the practical skills needed for daily financial transactions, such as budgeting, paying bills, making purchases, and navigating needs and wants.
3. Social Inclusion: Money capability enables meaningful participation in social activities and community interactions. It facilitates access to leisure activities, shopping, and dining out – essential components of a well-rounded social life.
4. Managing an Earned Income: There is a lot of initiative toward Competitive Integrated Employment. Having a significant earned income may be new and can definitely be scary for someone afraid of losing essential benefits and services.
5. Financial Safety: Understanding financial concepts like change back, handling requests for money and items from friends, and not oversharing sensitive information safeguards individuals with intellectual disabilities from exploitation and financial harm.
6. Family and Community Support: A person with money capability contributes to their family and community by sharing responsibilities, reducing the weight on public resources, and participating in economic growth.
7. Life Transitions: Whether transitioning to independent living or adapting to changing circumstances, possessing money management skills eases the process and mitigates potential stressors.
8. Empowerment: Control over personal resources is a catalyst for decision-making and independence, enabling individuals to lead fulfilling and self-directed lives.
9. Advocacy and Self-Expression: Money capability empowers individuals to advocate for their financial needs and express their preferences regarding how their money is used.