More than 200,000 long-term care workers may qualify for bonuses of up to $1,000 from the state of Minnesota. 

Direct support professionals are workers who support people with disabilities, aging Minnesotans and children with autism. They are sometimes known as personal care assistants, nursing home workers or other titles. Direct support professionals help people bathe, shower, get in or out of chairs, use the bathroom, eat and perform other daily activities.

With $84 million approved in 2023, the Minnesota Care Force Incentive program recognizes the essential work of direct support professionals. Funds will go to organizations that will pay bonuses to eligible employees in early 2025.

“These payments recognize our direct support workforce and how much we value their work,” said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “We’re grateful the Legislature and Governor Tim Walz created this fund to help address one of our major workforce challenges.” 

Employers may submit applications for the Minnesota Care Force Incentive program between Aug. 15 and Sept. 30. The Minnesota Department of Human Services will contact provider organizations that qualify later this year. 

Exact amounts of individual bonuses will depend on how many applications the state receives. The bonuses could be as high as $1,000 per direct support professional. 

For more information: Minnesota Care Force Incentive Portal or https://pcgus.jotform.com/team/mncareforce/portal.