How to Become a PCA for a Family Member in Minnesota

Are you caring for a loved one? Did you know you can get paid to be a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) for a family member? Many people provide unpaid care for relatives without realizing they might qualify for compensation!

Important Program Update in Minnesota

As of October 1st, 2024, Personal Care Assistance (PCA) services have been replaced by Community First Services and Supports (CFSS). Anyone receiving PCA services will transition to CFSS upon the date of their reassessment, as long as there are no changes in condition that would disqualify them from eligibility.

Why is Minnesota making this change?

This transition offers enhanced benefits, greater flexibility, and more control over home care services. Read our guide to CFSS for a deeper understanding of the Minnesota DHS process.

Understanding the Role of a Personal Care Assistant

Before learning how to become a PCA for a family member in MN, it’s important to understand what the role entails. PCAs are responsible for providing essential support with daily activities for individuals who need assistance due to age, illness, or disability. These activities include:

• Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming).
• Meal preparation and feeding assistance.
• Medication reminders.
• Mobility support.
• Transportation to medical appointments.
• Physical exercise support.
• Mental stimulation activities.

Requirements to Become a Paid Caregiver

Have you wondered, “How do I become a paid caregiver for a family member in Minnesota?” Let’s start with the basic requirements!

• Be at least 18 years old (some exceptions exist for ages 16-17 with supervision).
• Pass a criminal background check.
• Complete the required training.
• Pass the certification test.
• Be capable of providing the necessary care.

Minnesota-Specific Requirements

As you explore how to become a paid caregiver for a family member in Minnesota, it’s important to understand these state-specific guidelines:

• Employment must be through a licensed provider agency.
• Enrollment with Minnesota's Department of Human Services is mandatory.
• You must undergo a background check that includes fingerprinting.

If you need help understanding all the requirements, contact Best Care for expert guidance. Our team is here to help you navigate the process of becoming a caregiver or making the transition to CFSS. 

Transitioning from PCA to CFSS

If your loved one is currently receiving PCA services, he or she will transition to CFSS during their next annual reassessment. As a caregiver, the skills and experience that you already have, as well as the support services you are providing, will not change.

According to Minnesota DHS, the PCA to CFSS transition might change other areas for you, such as:

• Your provider agency might change if the recipient of care chooses a new provider.
• You may be required to complete a new background check.
• Your employment relationship might change.
  • If the person you support chooses the budget model, they will be your employer.
  • If they choose the agency model, the agency will be your employer.

Ask the Experts at Best Care

At Best Care, we’ve made it our mission to improve the lives of caregivers as much as possible so that they can concentrate their energy on providing the best level of care. That’s why we pride ourselves on offering a wealth of benefits, so you can take care of yourself and others the way you choose.

Take the hassle out of admin work with our Timesheet App, and have open access to a friendly team ready to support you in any way we can. Best Care also offers flexible hours, PTO, and holiday pay. Even family caregivers deserve time off, and we make it easy to rest up so you can continue the life-changing work you do every day.

If you want to become a PCA for a family member in MN and feel confused about the requirements or the new CFSS program, Best Care is here to help. Our experienced team can answer all your questions and help you navigate the process of becoming a paid family caregiver. Contact us today to learn how we can support your caregiving journey.