Support for Your Child Should Make Life Easier, Not More Complicated
What Is the FSCD Program?
Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) is an Alberta government program that provides funding to help families care for children under 18 with disabilities.
Funding is based on your child’s assessed needs and outlined in an individualized support plan. No two plans are the same.
FSCD helps families:
- Access respite and support services
- Support their child's development
- Manage additional care needs
- Maintain family stability
What Is FSCD Direct Billing?
Direct billing means your provider invoices FSCD directly for approved services.
With direct billing:
- You don't pay upfront
- You don't submit invoices
- Services stay within approved allocations
- Documentation is handled correctly
It removes the administrative burden, so you can focus on your child.
Direct Billing vs Reimbursement
| Model | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Reimbursement | You pay first, submit invoices, and wait for repayment |
| Direct Billing | Provider bills FSCD directly—no upfront cost |
Not all providers offer direct billing. It's important to confirm before starting services.
What FSCD Funding May Cover
Respite Services (most commonly approved):
- In-home, community-based, overnight, or short-term hourly support, giving families a break while their child receives quality care.
Specialized Supports (when approved):
- Therapy programs, skill development, or behavioral intervention services.
Transportation:
- Transportation to appointments, programs, and community activities. When included in your FSCD contract, we bill directly. If not covered, transportation remains available as a private-pay service.
Other Supports:
- Equipment or supplies (partial coverage in some cases).
How FSCD Support Works
We don't just deliver services, we help you navigate the system so it works for your family.
- Review your FSCD contract before services begin
- Align services with approved categories
- Schedule within authorized hours
- Track usage and notify you early
- Maintain compliant documentation
- Direct bill FSCD where authorized
- Coordinate with your caseworker when needed
You focus on your child. We handle the system properly.
So you always know where your support stands and what comes next.
Understanding Your FSCD Contract
Your contract defines what is approved and how funding can be used.
It's the single most important document guiding how your child's support is delivered.
It includes:
- Approved services
- Annual allocations
- Service providers
- Responsibilities
- Review timelines
Understanding your contract reduces the risk of service disruption.
Planning for the Transition to Adult Services
FSCD support ends at age 18. If your child will need support beyond that point, they will transition to the PDD program.
Important timeline:
- Start planning 1–2 years before age 18
- PDD application can begin at 16
- FSCD ends at 18
- PDD begins at 18
Common Questions About FSCD
No. You can reach out anytime.
No. With direct billing, services are billed directly to FSCD.
Services must pause or adjust unless your plan is updated.
Yes, depending on your arrangement.
Yes, when appropriate and authorized.
Your total usage must stay within your approved allocation. Coordination between providers is important to avoid exceeding your contract limits.