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CFSS Basics

  • Q. What is CFSS (Community First Services and Supports)?

    Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) is a Minnesota Medicaid home and community-based program that replaced the former Personal Care Assistance (PCA) program. It provides funding for support services that help individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions live independently in their homes and communities — rather than in institutional settings. CFSS allows participants to direct their own care and choose who provides their support.

  • Q. What services does CFSS cover?

    CFSS offers two service delivery models:

    • Agency Model: A licensed CFSS provider agency employs and manages your support workers. The agency handles payroll, taxes, training, and scheduling on your behalf.
    • Budget Model: You receive a CFSS budget and become the employer of your support workers. You have more flexibility and control — including the ability to hire family members — but you take on more responsibility for managing your team. A Financial Management Services (FMS) provider handles payroll on your behalf.

    CarePath helps you evaluate both options and choose what fits your life best.

  • Q. What services does CFSS cover?

    CFSS covers support with daily activities that help you live independently. This can include:

    • Personal hygiene and grooming assistance
    • Mobility and transfers
    • Meal preparation and eating
    • Medication reminders and health-related tasks
    • Community access and participation
    • Assistance with household tasks essential to your health and safety

    The exact services authorized depend on your individual assessment and DHS-approved service delivery plan.

  • Q. How is CFSS different from the old PCA program?

    CFSS replaced Minnesota's Personal Care Assistance (PCA) program. Key differences include greater participant direction under the Budget Model, the ability to hire and directly manage support workers (including qualified family members), a broader focus on community inclusion and independence, and new requirements around service delivery plan documentation and annual orientation. CFSS also introduced the role of CFSS Consultant — which is exactly what CarePath provides.

Eligibility

  • Q. Who is eligible for CFSS in Minnesota?
    To be eligible for CFSS, you generally must:
    • Be a Minnesota resident enrolled in Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
    • Have a qualifying disability, chronic health condition, or be an older adult who needs assistance with daily activities
    • Require assistance with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL) or Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL)
    • Meet DHS functional assessment criteria
    Children and adults of all ages may qualify. CarePath can review your situation and help you understand next steps.
  • Q. Do I need a diagnosis to qualify?
    A formal diagnosis is not always required, but you must demonstrate a functional need for assistance. A DHS-certified assessor will complete a functional assessment to determine your level of need. The assessment looks at your ability to complete daily tasks, not just your medical diagnoses. CarePath can help you prepare for this assessment and understand what to expect.
  • Q. Can children receive CFSS services?
    Yes. Children with qualifying disabilities or chronic conditions may be eligible for CFSS if they meet Medical Assistance and functional assessment requirements. For minors, a parent or guardian typically serves as the Authorized Representative and takes on the employer responsibilities under the Budget Model. CarePath works with families to navigate this process with confidence.

Working with CarePath

  • Q. What does a CFSS Consultant do?

    A CFSS Consultant is a DHS-authorized professional who helps participants understand and navigate the CFSS program. Consultants provide education on your rights and responsibilities, help you develop a compliant service delivery plan, guide you through the budget and FMS process, support hiring decisions, and provide ongoing check-ins to make sure your supports continue to meet your goals. CarePath consultants are experienced, person-centered, and available statewide.

  • Q. Is the initial consultation really free?
    Yes — your first consultation with CarePath is completely free and carries no obligation. We use it to understand your situation, answer your questions, and walk you through your options so you can make an informed decision. There is no pressure to commit to any service. To schedule yours, visit our Contact page.
  • Q. Does CarePath serve my area? I live outside the Twin Cities.
    Yes. CarePath serves participants across all of Minnesota — from the Twin Cities metro to Greater Minnesota, including Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, and rural communities. Consultations are available in person, by phone, or virtually, so distance is never a barrier to getting the support you need.
  • Q. How is CarePath different from my case manager?

    Your case manager (or care coordinator) oversees your overall long-term care plan and service authorizations. A CFSS Consultant like CarePath specifically focuses on helping you understand and manage your CFSS services — including your service delivery plan, your budget, your support team, and your rights as a participant. We work alongside your case manager, not in place of them, to make sure your CFSS plan is working as it should.

Budget & FMS

  • Q. What is a Financial Management Services (FMS) provider?

    An FMS provider is an organization that handles the financial and employer-related tasks for Budget Model participants. This includes processing payroll for your support workers, managing employment taxes, tracking your CFSS budget spending, and ensuring compliance with state requirements. You remain in control of who you hire and how your supports are arranged — FMS simply handles the paperwork behind the scenes. CarePath helps you understand your FMS options and choose the right provider.

  • Q. How is my CFSS budget determined?

    Your CFSS budget is based on your functional assessment results and the authorized hours in your service delivery plan. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) uses a formula to convert your authorized support hours into a dollar budget. CarePath helps you understand how your budget is calculated, what it can be used for, and how to make the most of it throughout the year.

  • Q. What happens if I go over my CFSS budget?

    If your CFSS budget is close to running out, it is important to act before it is exhausted. You may be able to request a budget adjustment from your case manager if your needs have changed. CarePath helps you track your spending, identify early warning signs, and navigate the request process if a budget increase is needed. Staying on top of your budget is one of the key ongoing services we provide.

Support Workers

  • Q. Can I hire a family member as my support worker?
    Yes — under the CFSS Budget Model, you can hire qualified family members as paid support workers. This includes parents, siblings, adult children, and other relatives, with some exceptions (legally responsible parties such as spouses or legal guardians of minor children may have additional restrictions). CarePath helps families understand the hiring rules, complete required paperwork, and set up a compliant employer-employee relationship through your FMS provider.
  • Q. What qualifications does a support worker need?

    CFSS support workers must meet Minnesota DHS requirements, which generally include:

    • Passing a DHS background study
    • Completing required CFSS orientation and training
    • Being at least 18 years of age (with some exceptions)
    • Being legally authorized to work in the United States

    CarePath walks you through the hiring checklist and helps you ensure your workers meet all compliance requirements from day one.

  • Q. What happens if my support worker leaves or I need to make a change?
    Staff changes are a normal part of managing a CFSS support team. When a worker leaves or you need to make a change, CarePath helps you understand your options, update your service delivery plan if needed, and navigate the re-hiring or transition process. We also help you create backup plans so gaps in care are minimized.

Service Planning

  • Q. What is a Service Delivery Plan (SDP) and why do I need one?

    A Service Delivery Plan (SDP) is a required DHS document that outlines your CFSS supports, goals, and how services will be provided. It describes what tasks your support workers will assist with, when and how often, and how those supports connect to your personal goals and independence. Without an approved SDP, your CFSS services cannot begin or continue. CarePath specializes in writing clear, person-centered SDPs that meet all state compliance requirements.

  • Q. How often does my service plan need to be reviewed or updated?

    Your CFSS service delivery plan must be reviewed at least annually. However, it should also be updated whenever there is a significant change in your needs, health status, living situation, or support team. CarePath provides ongoing quality assurance check-ins and helps you initiate plan updates when your life changes — so your services always stay aligned with your current goals.

  • Q. What is the annual orientation requirement?

    Under CFSS, participants and their support workers are required to complete an annual orientation to review their rights, responsibilities, and service plan. This ensures everyone involved understands the program requirements and the participant's current goals. CarePath guides both participants and their teams through this process each year, making it straightforward and stress-free.

  • Q. How do I get started with CFSS for the first time?
    Getting started with CFSS typically involves these steps:
    • Confirm you are enrolled in Minnesota Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
    • Contact your county or managed care organization (MCO) to request a CFSS assessment
    • Complete a functional assessment with a DHS-certified assessor
    • Choose your service delivery model (Agency or Budget)
    • Work with a CFSS Consultant like CarePath to develop your service delivery plan
    • Select and hire your support workers (Budget Model) or select an agency (Agency Model)
    • Begin receiving services
    CarePath is here to guide you through every single step. Request your free consultation to get started today.
  • Q. What is CFSS (Community First Services and Supports)?

    Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) is a Minnesota Medicaid home and community-based program that replaced the former Personal Care Assistance (PCA) program. It provides funding for support services that help individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions live independently in their homes and communities — rather than in institutional settings. CFSS allows participants to direct their own care and choose who provides their support.

  • Q. What services does CFSS cover?

    CFSS offers two service delivery models:

    • Agency Model: A licensed CFSS provider agency employs and manages your support workers. The agency handles payroll, taxes, training, and scheduling on your behalf.
    • Budget Model: You receive a CFSS budget and become the employer of your support workers. You have more flexibility and control — including the ability to hire family members — but you take on more responsibility for managing your team. A Financial Management Services (FMS) provider handles payroll on your behalf.

    CarePath helps you evaluate both options and choose what fits your life best.

  • Q. What services does CFSS cover?

    CFSS covers support with daily activities that help you live independently. This can include:

    • Personal hygiene and grooming assistance
    • Mobility and transfers
    • Meal preparation and eating
    • Medication reminders and health-related tasks
    • Community access and participation
    • Assistance with household tasks essential to your health and safety

    The exact services authorized depend on your individual assessment and DHS-approved service delivery plan.

  • Q. How is CFSS different from the old PCA program?

    CFSS replaced Minnesota's Personal Care Assistance (PCA) program. Key differences include greater participant direction under the Budget Model, the ability to hire and directly manage support workers (including qualified family members), a broader focus on community inclusion and independence, and new requirements around service delivery plan documentation and annual orientation. CFSS also introduced the role of CFSS Consultant — which is exactly what CarePath provides.

  • Q. Who is eligible for CFSS in Minnesota?

    To be eligible for CFSS, you generally must:

    • Be a Minnesota resident enrolled in Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
    • Have a qualifying disability, chronic health condition, or be an older adult who needs assistance with daily activities
    • Require assistance with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL) or Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL)
    • Meet DHS functional assessment criteria

    Children and adults of all ages may qualify. CarePath can review your situation and help you understand next steps.

  • Q. Do I need a diagnosis to qualify?

    A formal diagnosis is not always required, but you must demonstrate a functional need for assistance. A DHS-certified assessor will complete a functional assessment to determine your level of need. The assessment looks at your ability to complete daily tasks, not just your medical diagnoses. CarePath can help you prepare for this assessment and understand what to expect.

  • Q. Can children receive CFSS services?

    Yes. Children with qualifying disabilities or chronic conditions may be eligible for CFSS if they meet Medical Assistance and functional assessment requirements. For minors, a parent or guardian typically serves as the Authorized Representative and takes on the employer responsibilities under the Budget Model. CarePath works with families to navigate this process with confidence.

  • Q. What does a CFSS Consultant do?

    A CFSS Consultant is a DHS-authorized professional who helps participants understand and navigate the CFSS program. Consultants provide education on your rights and responsibilities, help you develop a compliant service delivery plan, guide you through the budget and FMS process, support hiring decisions, and provide ongoing check-ins to make sure your supports continue to meet your goals. CarePath consultants are experienced, person-centered, and available statewide.

  • Q. Is the initial consultation really free?

    Yes — your first consultation with CarePath is completely free and carries no obligation. We use it to understand your situation, answer your questions, and walk you through your options so you can make an informed decision. There is no pressure to commit to any service. To schedule yours, visit our Contact page.

  • Q. Does CarePath serve my area? I live outside the Twin Cities.

    Yes. CarePath serves participants across all of Minnesota — from the Twin Cities metro to Greater Minnesota, including Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, and rural communities. Consultations are available in person, by phone, or virtually, so distance is never a barrier to getting the support you need.

  • Q. How is CarePath different from my case manager?

    Your case manager (or care coordinator) oversees your overall long-term care plan and service authorizations. A CFSS Consultant like CarePath specifically focuses on helping you understand and manage your CFSS services — including your service delivery plan, your budget, your support team, and your rights as a participant. We work alongside your case manager, not in place of them, to make sure your CFSS plan is working as it should.

  • Q. What is a Financial Management Services (FMS) provider?

    An FMS provider is an organization that handles the financial and employer-related tasks for Budget Model participants. This includes processing payroll for your support workers, managing employment taxes, tracking your CFSS budget spending, and ensuring compliance with state requirements. You remain in control of who you hire and how your supports are arranged — FMS simply handles the paperwork behind the scenes. CarePath helps you understand your FMS options and choose the right provider.

  • Q. How is my CFSS budget determined?

    Your CFSS budget is based on your functional assessment results and the authorized hours in your service delivery plan. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) uses a formula to convert your authorized support hours into a dollar budget. CarePath helps you understand how your budget is calculated, what it can be used for, and how to make the most of it throughout the year.

  • Q. What happens if I go over my CFSS budget?

    If your CFSS budget is close to running out, it is important to act before it is exhausted. You may be able to request a budget adjustment from your case manager if your needs have changed. CarePath helps you track your spending, identify early warning signs, and navigate the request process if a budget increase is needed. Staying on top of your budget is one of the key ongoing services we provide.

  • Q. Can I hire a family member as my support worker?

    Yes — under the CFSS Budget Model, you can hire qualified family members as paid support workers. This includes parents, siblings, adult children, and other relatives, with some exceptions (legally responsible parties such as spouses or legal guardians of minor children may have additional restrictions). CarePath helps families understand the hiring rules, complete required paperwork, and set up a compliant employer-employee relationship through your FMS provider.

  • Q. What qualifications does a support worker need?

    CFSS support workers must meet Minnesota DHS requirements, which generally include:

    • Passing a DHS background study
    • Completing required CFSS orientation and training
    • Being at least 18 years of age (with some exceptions)
    • Being legally authorized to work in the United States

    CarePath walks you through the hiring checklist and helps you ensure your workers meet all compliance requirements from day one.

  • Q. What happens if my support worker leaves or I need to make a change?

    Staff changes are a normal part of managing a CFSS support team. When a worker leaves or you need to make a change, CarePath helps you understand your options, update your service delivery plan if needed, and navigate the re-hiring or transition process. We also help you create backup plans so gaps in care are minimized.

  • Q. What is a Service Delivery Plan (SDP) and why do I need one?

    A Service Delivery Plan (SDP) is a required DHS document that outlines your CFSS supports, goals, and how services will be provided. It describes what tasks your support workers will assist with, when and how often, and how those supports connect to your personal goals and independence. Without an approved SDP, your CFSS services cannot begin or continue. CarePath specializes in writing clear, person-centered SDPs that meet all state compliance requirements.

  • Q. How often does my service plan need to be reviewed or updated?

    Your CFSS service delivery plan must be reviewed at least annually. However, it should also be updated whenever there is a significant change in your needs, health status, living situation, or support team. CarePath provides ongoing quality assurance check-ins and helps you initiate plan updates when your life changes — so your services always stay aligned with your current goals.

  • Q. What is the annual orientation requirement?

    Under CFSS, participants and their support workers are required to complete an annual orientation to review their rights, responsibilities, and service plan. This ensures everyone involved understands the program requirements and the participant's current goals. CarePath guides both participants and their teams through this process each year, making it straightforward and stress-free.

  • Q. How do I get started with CFSS for the first time?

    Getting started with CFSS typically involves these steps:

    • Confirm you are enrolled in Minnesota Medical Assistance (Medicaid)
    • Contact your county or managed care organization (MCO) to request a CFSS assessment
    • Complete a functional assessment with a DHS-certified assessor
    • Choose your service delivery model (Agency or Budget)
    • Work with a CFSS Consultant like CarePath to develop your service delivery plan
    • Select and hire your support workers (Budget Model) or select an agency (Agency Model)
    • Begin receiving services

    CarePath is here to guide you through every single step. Request your free consultation to get started today.

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