PCA to CFSS in Minnesota: What Families Need to Know
Minnesota is replacing the PCA program with CFSS. Here’s what’s changing, when, and how to switch without losing your caregiver or coverage.
By the Kalkaal Home Care team
Reviewed by our licensed Minnesota home care staff · Updated June 18, 2026
If you or a loved one receives Personal Care Assistance (PCA) in Minnesota, you’ve probably heard that big changes are underway. The state is transitioning everyone from the PCA program to a new program called Community First Services and Supports (CFSS). This guide explains what that means for you — in plain language.
What is CFSS?
CFSS (Community First Services and Supports) is Minnesota’s new self-directed home care program. It’s replacing both the PCA program and the state-funded Consumer Support Grant (CSG). The goal is to give people who need help with daily living more choice and control over who provides their care and how.
CFSS covers the same kinds of help you may already rely on:
- Activities of daily living — bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and transferring
- Health-related tasks
- Instrumental activities — shopping, cooking, laundry, and light housekeeping
- Assistance with self-administered medications
- Observation and redirection
What’s actually changing?
The biggest difference is flexibility. Under CFSS, you choose one of two models:
- Agency-Provider Model — an agency like Kalkaal is the employer. We hire, train, schedule, and pay your caregivers, and handle the paperwork.
- Budget Model — you direct your own service budget and employ your own workers, including eligible family members or friends, with financial-management support.
You also get more say in your support plan, and — in many cases — the ability to hire someone you already know and trust.
When is the transition happening?
Minnesota began moving people from PCA to CFSS in October 2024, and the transition is rolling out in phases. You don’t have to figure out the timing on your own — your agency and county will guide you, and there should be no gap in your care during the switch.
Will I lose my current caregiver?
In most cases, no. One of the whole points of CFSS is to let you keep — and even hire — the people you trust. If you work with a good agency, they’ll make sure your caregiver transitions with you.
How Kalkaal helps you transition
Switching programs can feel intimidating, especially if English isn’t your first language. At Kalkaal Home Care, we:
- Explain your options in your language — we’re a multilingual team with interpreter services
- Verify your Medical Assistance eligibility
- Handle every form and coordinate with your county
- Help you choose the model that fits your family
- Make sure your care continues without interruption
Currently on PCA? The best time to plan your transition is now — before your renewal date.
Ready to make the switch simple? Contact our team or call us at 612-333-1690. Learn more about CFSS services.
Questions about your care options?
Our team is here to help — in your language.