Self-direction isn't complicated once someone explains it in plain English. The problem is that almost no one does. Here's the path from I think we qualify to my first paycheck cleared. The full path takes most families 60–120 days from start to finish. If you're already on Medical Assistance and a waiver, the back half can move in 2–3 weeks.
Step 1: Make sure you're on Medical Assistance
MA is Minnesota's name for Medicaid. Apply through MNsure or your county or tribal human services office. You'll need ID, income documentation, proof of Minnesota residency, and immigration status documentation if applicable. Timeline: 30–45 days; disability-based determinations take longer.
Step 2: Get a needs assessment
Your county or tribal lead agency does an assessment using MnCHOICES. For CDCS, they determine waiver eligibility; for CFSS, they confirm personal-care needs. Assessments happen within 20 days of request; waiver approval takes another 30–60 days, sometimes longer for the DD Waiver in certain counties.
Step 3: Choose your program and model
Based on your assessment, you'll be eligible for CDCS (through DD, CADI, BI, CAC, or Elderly Waiver) or CFSS Budget Model. Tell your case manager you want the self-directed Budget option, especially if you want to hire a parent, spouse, or other family member.
Step 4: Build your service plan
For CDCS, your case manager builds a person-centered service plan and budget with you. For CFSS, you work with a consultation services provider to complete a CFSS service delivery plan.
Step 5: Choose Aspen as your FMS provider
Tell your case manager or CFSS consultation services provider: I'd like to use Aspen FMS. They'll send us your authorization.
Step 6: Enroll with Aspen
We'll walk you through household employer registration (IRS and Minnesota), direct deposit setup, portal access, background studies for every caregiver (DHS NETStudy 2.0), PCA/CFSS support worker training enrollment, and new-hire paperwork, including the specific documentation needed when the caregiver is a parent, spouse, or family member. Timeline: 5–10 business days from authorization.
Step 7: Get your caregivers cleared and trained
Every caregiver, including spouses and parents, must:
- Pass a Minnesota DHS background study (NETStudy 2.0)
- Complete the PCA/CFSS support worker training and pass the test
- Complete all new-hire paperwork
Step 8: Start services and get paid
Caregivers log time using EVV timesheets on a mobile app. You approve hours. We handle payroll, taxes, workers' comp, and SEIU contract compliance. Caregivers get paid on a regular bi-weekly schedule.
Common questions
Can I be paid to care for my own child?
If you're a parent of a minor child with a disability, yes, in both CDCS and CFSS Budget Model, in many situations. The exact rules depend on your child's age, your waiver, and the type of support. Your case manager confirms specifics.
Can I be paid to care for my spouse?
Yes, in both CDCS and CFSS Budget Model, in many situations. CFSS in particular opened this up more than the old PCA program allowed.
Can I switch FMS providers if I'm not happy?
Yes. Your budget follows you, not your FMS. We handle the transition so no one misses a paycheck.
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