Stipends for PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG workers
Important note about stipends
The Department of Human Services has contracted with The Odyssey Group LLC to register workers for voluntary training opportunities and the verification and distribution of stipend payments. Stipend checks distributed for these stipend programs will be issued by The Odyssey Group and not the state of Minnesota.
Direct support workers retention stipend program
As of Sept. 22, 2023, workers can qualify for a one-time retention stipend of $1,000 if they meet the following requirements:
- Currently are in the SEIU collective bargaining unit, meaning they provided PCA services to a person who uses PCA Choice, CDCS or CSG services within the past six months.
- Have been in the SEIU bargaining unit for at least six months, meaning they provided PCA services to a person who uses PCA Choice, CDCS or CSG services for at least six months from 2015 to present.
Stipends are available until the $50 million in funding is exhausted or until May 31, 2025, whichever is sooner. To submit your application, visit the Direct Support Workers Retention Stipend Program application page.
Electronic visit verification stipend program
As of Oct. 31, 2023, workers can qualify for a one-time electronic visit verification (EVV) stipend of $200. The stipend is designed to offset the potential cost of using individual devices to access EVV systems.
Workers can qualify for the stipend if they are in the SEIU collective bargaining unit, meaning they provided PCA services to a person who uses PCA Choice, CDCS, or CSG services within the past six months.
Stipends are available until the $5.6 million in funding is exhausted or until May 31, 2025, whichever is sooner. To submit your application, visit the Direct Support Workers EVV Stipend Program application page.
Voluntary training stipend
As of July 1, 2023, workers who complete qualifying trainings qualify for one $500 stipend when they work with a person who is a participant in PCA Choice, CDCS or CSG. Stipends are available until funding is exhausted or until June 30, 2025, whichever is sooner.
Ways to qualify for the voluntary training stipend
| Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 | Option 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| For PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG workers who are a home health aide or have a current LPN, CNA or RN license | For workers who provide PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG services | For workers who provide PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG services | For workers who provide PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG services |
Note: Workers must keep their license active or certificate current to continue to qualify for the enhanced rate |
|
Note: Personal Care Essentials is a 12-hour training that takes place over three days. This training is not available to workers who provide Traditional PCA services |
Note: Online CPR and first aid courses will NOT be accepted. |
Once you have completed training
To submit your materials, please go to the Minnesota Direct Support Worker Training website, sign up and follow the instructions.
Language issues
If you are unable to complete the required trainings because English is not your primary language, you may apply for the enhanced rate through an exception process. You must still apply by creating a profile on the Direct Support Workers Training Benefits site and have a person who is able to communicate in English send an email to the DSW administrator explaining your language needs.