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From PCA to CFSS: What Minnesota Families Need to Know – and How Laura Baker Services Association Can Help

At Laura Baker Services Association, we understand that change – especially in complex care systems – can feel overwhelming. That’s why our Family Navigation Services are here to walk alongside you as Minnesota transitions from the long-standing Personal Care Assistance (PCA) program to the new Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) model. This shift, which began in October 2024 and will continue through 2025, is more than a name change – it’s a reimagining of how families can access and direct care for loved ones with disabilities.

Why is Minnesota moving from PCA to CFSS?

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) launched CFSS to give individuals and families more flexibility, more control and more dignity in how they receive support. While PCA focused primarily on staffing and task-based care, CFSS expands the possibilities – allowing families to shape services around their unique needs, values and goals.

What’s staying the same?

Let’s start with some reassurance. Many of the core elements of PCA remain intact under CFSS:

  • Eligibility: You still qualify through an MnCHOICES assessment.
  • Covered services: Assistance with daily living, health-related tasks and behavioral support continues.
  • Care delivery: You can still work with provider agencies or direct your own care.
  • Participant direction: Individuals or their representatives remain in charge of their care decisions.

So if you’re already receiving PCA services, you won’t lose support – you’ll gain new options.

What’s new – and why does it matter?

CFSS introduces several key features designed to empower families:

  • Consultation Services Providers: These are independent professionals who help you understand CFSS, choose between service models and create a personalized service delivery plan. This is a new layer of support that didn’t exist under PCA.
  • Budget Model Option: Families can now choose to manage their own care budget, including setting caregiver wages and purchasing goods or services that promote independence – like grab bars, adaptive utensils or even laundry services.
  • Family Members as Paid Caregivers: Under CFSS, spouses and parents of minors can now be paid to provide care. This is a major shift from PCA, which excluded these family members.
  • Expanded Worker Pool: Even individuals who receive CFSS can become paid caregivers for others, recognizing the value of lived experience and peer support.

What does this mean for families?

Let’s break it down with some common questions we hear from families at LBSA:

Q: Do I need to switch right away?
A: No. The transition happens at your next annual reassessment. Until then, your PCA services continue as usual. But it’s a good idea to start learning about your options now.

Q: What’s the difference between the Agency Model and the Budget Model?
A: In the Agency Model, a licensed provider agency hires and supervises your caregivers. In the Budget Model, you (or your representative) become the employer – setting wages, managing schedules and working with a Fiscal Management Service (FMS) to handle payroll and taxes.

Q: Can I keep my current caregiver?
A: In most cases, yes – but they may need to complete new training or sign a new agreement depending on the model you choose.

How LBSA’s Family Navigation Services Can Help

This transition isn’t just about paperwork – it’s about people. Our Navigators are here to:

  • Explain the CFSS process in plain language.
  • Help you prepare for your reassessment.
  • Connect you with Consultation Services Providers.
  • Support you in choosing a model that fits your life.
  • Advocate for your family’s needs every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Change can be hard – but it can also be empowering. CFSS offers families more tools, more voice and more opportunity to shape care that truly reflects their values. With Laura Baker Services Association by your side, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Sign up for a FREE Family Navigation consultation and connect with on of our navigators.