Compare your options
Agency Model or Budget Model — which fits you?
Every CFSS recipient picks one of two service models. There is no universally "better" option — the right choice depends on how much control and flexibility you want.
Compare
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Agency Model | Budget Model |
|---|---|---|
| Who hires the workers | The agency hires for you | You hire your own workers |
| Who handles payroll | The agency | A Financial Management Service (FMS) you choose |
| Worker training | Provided by the agency | You arrange training; FMS supports you |
| Backup if a worker calls out | Agency arranges a substitute | You arrange your own backup |
| Can family members be paid? | Limited cases | Yes — most family members eligible |
| Admin paperwork on you | Minimal | More — but FMS handles the heavy lifting |
| Flexibility & control | Standard | High |
| Best if… | You want simple, hands-off support | You want to choose and direct your own workers |
Agency Model
The Agency Model in detail
Under the Agency Model, a CFSS provider agency takes care of the employer-side responsibilities. They recruit, hire, train, pay, and supervise your support workers. You direct your own care — you tell workers what you need and when — but the agency handles all the HR, scheduling backup, and paperwork. This is the closest model to the old PCA program and works well for people who want reliable support without administrative work.
Pros
- Less paperwork and admin for you
- Guaranteed backup coverage when a worker is sick
- The agency handles training and HR
- Predictable, structured experience
Trade-offs
- Less flexibility in choosing workers
- Family members usually cannot be paid workers
- Schedule changes go through the agency
Budget Model
The Budget Model in detail
Under the Budget Model, you receive a monthly budget and become the employer of your own support workers. You decide who to hire (including most family members), what they do, when they work, and what to pay them within the budget. A Financial Management Service (FMS) handles payroll, taxes, and worker payments behind the scenes. This model gives the most control — and works well for people who already have someone in mind to be their worker, or who need maximum flexibility.
Pros
- You pick your own workers — including family
- Set schedules and pay rates that work for you
- Use part of your budget for goods, services, or assistive tech
- Maximum flexibility and control
Trade-offs
- You handle hiring and arranging backup
- More responsibility — though FMS does the payroll work
- Requires comfort with admin and decision-making
Want help deciding?
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