Stipends for CFSS budget model, PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG workers

Important note about stipends

DHS has contracted with The Odyssey Group to register workers for voluntary training opportunities and the verification and distribution of stipend payments through May 31, 2026. Stipend checks distributed for these stipend programs will be issued by The Odyssey Group and not the state of Minnesota.

DHS will publish a request for proposals to contract with a vendor to register workers for voluntary training opportunities and the verification and distribution of stipend payments from June 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. DHS will communicate instructions for applying for stipends and trainings after May 31, 2026, as soon as we have the application processes in place.

Note: All stipends must be deposited or cashed by June 14, 2027. We will place stop payments on all checks as of June 15, 2027. Checks will not be accepted by your financial institution after that date, regardless on the void statement on the check. We cannot make any exceptions.

Direct support workers retention stipend program

Workers are eligible to receive one $1,200 stipend each fiscal year of the 2025-2027 contract if they meet the following requirements:

  • Are in the SEIU collective bargaining unit, meaning they provided PCA services within the past six months to a person who uses CFSS budget model, PCA Choice, CDCS or CSG services.
  • Have been in the SEIU bargaining unit for at least six months, meaning they provided PCA services for at least six months from 2015 to present to a person who uses CFSS budget model, PCA Choice, CDCS or CSG services.

To submit your application, visit the Direct Support Workers Retention Stipend Program application page.

Retention stipends are available until we spend all funds or June 30, 2027, whichever is sooner.

Voluntary training stipend

Workers who complete qualifying trainings qualify for one $750 stipend when they work with a person who is a participant in CFSS budget model, PCA Choice, CDCS or CSG.

Stipends are available until we spend all funds or June 30, 2027, whichever is sooner.

Ways to qualify for the voluntary training stipend

Option 1: For PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG workers who are a home health aide or have a current LPN, CNA or RN license Option 2: For workers who provide PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG services Option 3: For workers who provide PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG services Option 4: For workers who provide PCA Choice, CDCS and CSG services
  • Course A
  • Current nursing license number or proof of HHA certification. Workers will provide this number or proof when they apply

Note: Workers must keep their license active or certificate current to continue to qualify for the enhanced rate
  • Course A
  • One in-person or virtual instructor-led training from Category B. Note: Online CPR and first aid courses will NOT be accepted.
  • Three online courses from Category C
  • Course A
  • Personal Care Essentials training from Category B

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
  • Course A
  • Two in-person or virtual instructor-led trainings from Category B

Note: We will not accept online CPR and first aid courses.

Once you have completed training

To submit your materials, 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.

Qualifying courses

For more information on the courses under Course A and Category C below, watch the video, DirectCourse Online classes for the Enhanced Rate: How to Get Started.