Community First Services and Supports

Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) is a state health care program that offers flexible options to meet the unique needs of people.

CFSS allows people greater independence in their homes and communities. To learn more, visit the Minnesota Department of Human Services Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) page.

Starting Oct. 1, 2024, CFSS replaced the Personal Care Assistance (PCA) program and the Consumer Support Grant (CSG).

Eligibility

The eligibility requirements for CFSS will be the same as PCA. A person eligible for PCA will also be eligible for CFSS unless they have a change in their condition. The person must:

Live in the community and not a facility such as a skilled nursing home.
Be able to direct care or have a representative who can direct care on their behalf.
Be enrolled in one of Minnesota's health care programs: Medical Assistance (MA), an MA waiver or the Alternative Care program.
Have an assessment that determines they are eligible.
Not be using the Family Support Grant.

Information for new participants

To see if our services can help, you can request a MnCHOICES assessment. Find out more about a MnChoices assessment.

After getting an assessment, a person must complete the following steps to start services:

Pick a provider from the DHS list.
Tell Dakota County which provider you picked by completing the following form

Complete the Client Consultation Service Provider Form

Schedule a meeting with the provider to complete the care plan.
Once the plan is submitted to the county and approved, the hours will be authorized, and the caregiver can start billing for services.
If you are using agency model, the worker should begin employment process with a CFSS agency. To search for agencies, visit Minnesota Aging and Disability Resources.

Information for current PCA or CSG participants

All PCA and CSG participants must move to Community First Services and Supports (CFSS).

After your assessment, see the DHS form Information for people eligible for CFSS service.
Once you decide on your service provider, let the county know by using the following form.