Community First Services and Supports

How do I get CFSS?

If you currently use PCA or CSG

CFSS will now be the service you will use, after you complete the steps to transition. Review the Information for people who use CFSS document for details. 

If you're new to PCA and CFSS

You need to be on Medical Assistance (MA), the Alternative Care (AC) program, or (in certain instances) MinnesotaCare.

You will need to ask for an assessment. Once you receive the results of the assessment, you'll receive a notice of action letter in the mail. This letter will tell you the services you are eligible for and not eligible for.

If you are eligible for CFSS, contact a consultation services provider who can work with you.

Then, inform you county, tribal nation or managed care organization to enter a service authorization for the consultation services provider.

What is a Consultation Service Provider?

A consultation service provider supports people receiving CFSS. All providers must have a contract with the state to provide services.

Consultation services providers:

• Provide education to help people make informed decisions about how to meet their needs using CFSS

• Help people write service delivery plans

• Review service delivery plans

• Provide ongoing support, as needed

You may decide how much help you want from your consultation services provider.

They will review your plan and submit it to the county, tribal nation or managed care organization.

I use PCA. What new options will I have? What stays the same?

CFSS will give you more choice and control over how you use services.

You will need to choose between a budget model and an agency model for service delivery. Each model offers different levels of responsibility for people who receive services. Both models allow you the most control possible to select and receive services.

With CFSS you can:

• Have a spouse or parent of a minor serve as workers

• Have a person using CFSS as your worker

• Buy goods and services to aid in independence

• Buy a personal emergency response system (PERS) to provide backup support

• Use a consultation services provider for help planning services

I use CSG. What new options will I have? What stays the same?

CFSS will give you more choice and control over how you use services.

You will need to choose between a budget model and an agency model for service delivery. Each model offers different levels of responsibility for people who receive services. Both models allow you the most control possible to select and receive services.

With CFSS you can use a consultation services provider to help you plan services.

Many things will stay the same with CFSS if you are using CSG. This includes options to:

• Buy goods and services to aid in independence (some changes may apply)

• Have a spouse or parent of a minor serve as workers

• Buy a personal emergency response system (PERS) to provide backup support

• Have a person using CFSS act as your worker

• Have a budget and serve as the employer to your workers

If you use CSG in place of Home Care Nursing, your lead agency will offer a MnCHOICES assessment to you at your annual reassessment.

I have more questions about CFSS. Where can I find information?

You can review additional frequently asked questions from the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

You can also contact the Disability Hub MN to help you find answers and connect you to resources.