Our Process
Clarity, Structure, and Support — Every Step of the Way
At Sentinel Four, we believe that navigating the Self-Determination Program should never feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve built a clear, step-by-step process that balances transparency with personalized guidance. From your first consultation to ongoing budget management, we simplify the details, handle the compliance, and keep you informed at every stage. Our goal is to give you confidence that each step is being managed with care, so you can focus on building the supports and services that matter most.
Years of Experience
Active Clients
Team Members
Satisfaction
1
Initial Consultation
Every family’s journey in Self-Determination is unique, so we begin with a conversation. During the initial consultation, we review your spending plan, Regional Center authorizations, and start dates to understand your goals and timelines. We’ll answer your questions, explain how the Co-Employer model works, and outline the steps ahead. This is where we make sure expectations are clear and that you have the guidance needed to move forward with confidence.
2
Onboarding
Once you’re ready, we gather the information and forms needed to set up your account. This includes collecting W-9s, employee documents, and vendor details, as well as creating your secure portal access. Our team walks you through each step, ensuring nothing is missed and that you feel comfortable with the process.
3
Implementation
With your documents in place, we align your spending plan to the correct service codes and establish payroll and vendor payment systems. Employees are added to payroll, vendors are approved, and your budget is mapped in the portal. This stage ensures that when your start date arrives, every piece is ready for smooth operation.
4
Go-Live
This is where your plan becomes active. Your employees can start working and you can begin submitting vendor invoices and purchase requests to your case manager. We process and pay them on schedule, giving you real-time visibility into your budget and peace of mind that services are running without delay.
5
Ongoing Support and Reporting
Our work doesn’t stop once your plan is live. Your dedicated case manager remains available to answer questions, troubleshoot issues, and provide ongoing guidance. We also generate regular budget reports and compliance documentation, keeping you informed and your plan aligned with Regional Center requirements.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Sentinel Four does not have a budget cap. We believe that everyone deserves access to the financial management services they need, regardless of their budget size. Our mission is to provide comprehensive support to all individuals and families, ensuring that everyone can benefit from our services without being limited by a financial threshold. Whether your budget is large or small, we are committed to working with you to manage your finances effectively and help you achieve your goals.
Getting started with Sentinel Four is a simple and streamlined process. Begin by contacting us through our website or by phone to schedule a consultation. During this initial conversation, we will discuss your needs, explain our services in detail, and answer any questions you may have.
Once you’re ready to move forward, we will initiate the enrollment process using DocuSign, our secure and convenient electronic signature platform. This allows you to review and sign all necessary documents from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need for in-person meetings or mailing paperwork. We will guide you through each step, ensuring that all forms are completed accurately and efficiently.
From there, we handle everything—from setting up payroll and tax filings to managing your budget and service agreements. Our team will work closely with you to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing support, so you can focus on your personal goals while we take care of the financial details. Sentinel Four is committed to making your experience as hassle-free and transparent as possible, providing you with peace of mind from start to finish.
Co-Employer: 20.92%
Sole Employer: 14.87%
Click here to review the DDS Summary Of Approved FMS Employer Burden
The employer burden and other employment-related costs are applicable to employing an SDP participant’s staff under the co-employer or the sole employer models. Employer burden costs are incorporated in the SDP participant’s spending plan. Other employment-related costs may be required by law or company policy or they may be optional costs agreed to by the SDP participant and their employee. The SDP participant’s spending plan shall only cover the costs of the services and supports listed in their spending plan, including the employer burden and employment-related costs identified in this directive.
The onboarding process usually takes 2–3 weeks, depending on how quickly documents and authorizations are received. Missing or late paperwork may extend this timeline.
Twice a month. We run scheduled payroll and vendor payment cycles. As long as timesheets and invoices are submitted on time and complete, payments are made in the next scheduled cycle.
Purchases and payroll cannot begin until both a signed spending plan and matching authorizations are in place. Missing documents may result in service delays or a shift in start date.
Benefits depend on the family’s budget and program rules. We’ll review your specific situation and explain options during the onboarding process.
Yes, full-time staff can be hired as long as the spending plan and budget support the position.
Yes, in some cases we can issue virtual credit cards tied directly to the participant’s budget. These cards provide families and vendors with a secure way to make purchases while ensuring funds are tracked and documented in real time. Availability depends on approval and the specifics of your spending plan.
Start Your Journey with Us Today
Our proven process is designed to provide clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Ready to take control of your SDP future? Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and discover how we can help you achieve your goals.
Join Us | 400+ clients throughout California!
