Respite gives family caregivers temporary relief from the ongoing responsibility of caring for a regional center consumer. Respite may allow a caregiver to rest, attend appointments, care for other family members, run necessary errands, or address other needs while the person is safely supported. The number of respite hours should be decided through the individualized IPP process. There is no statewide maximum number of respite hours. Regional centers may use purchase-of-service guidelines, but those guidelines cannot operate as automatic caps and cannot replace an individualized review of the family’s actual needs. This practice guide aims to help you advocate for yourself in front of the regional center and secure the amount of respite you really need.