Connecticut
Personal Care Attendant Waiver Program (PCA Waiver)
Self-directed care programs in Connecticut that let you choose your own personal assistant or pay a family member as your caregiver.
Personal Care Attendant Waiver Program
Wait: 3-6 moPA Hourly Rate
$22.00 - $23.00
per hour
Monthly Benefit
$1,500 - $3,500
estimated range
What You Can & Can't Do
What You Can Do
- Hire a family member (not spouse) as your paid PCA
- Direct and manage your own personal care services
- Choose your own PCA and set the schedule
- Receive help with bathing, dressing, grooming, transfers, and meal preparation
- Have a designated representative manage your care if needed
- Request additional hours if your needs increase
What You Can't Do
- Hire your spouse as a paid PCA
- Enroll if you are under 18 or over 64 years old
- Use PCA funds for skilled nursing or medical procedures
- Receive services if living in a nursing facility
- Have your PCA perform household tasks unrelated to your disability
- Transfer authorized hours to another person
How to Apply
Confirm Medicaid enrollment
Ensure you have active Connecticut Medicaid (HUSKY Health). Apply through the DSS CONNECT portal if needed.
Contact DSS for PCA Waiver
Call the Department of Social Services at (860) 424-5055 to request a PCA Waiver application.
Submit application and medical documentation
Complete the application with supporting documentation from your physician certifying your physical disability and need for personal care.
Receive in-home assessment
A nurse assessor visits your home to evaluate your functional limitations and determine the level of care needed.
Waitlist placement
If approved, you may be placed on the waitlist (typically 3-6 months). DSS notifies you when a slot becomes available.
Develop care plan
Work with your case manager to create a care plan specifying services, hours, and scheduling.
Hire and enroll your PCA
Recruit your PCA, who must complete enrollment including background check, training, and fiscal intermediary paperwork.
PA Documents & Requirements
What your personal assistant needs to get started in Connecticut
Government-issued photo ID
Valid driver's license, state ID, or passport
Social Security card
For payroll and tax purposes
W-4 tax withholding form
Federal income tax withholding
I-9 Employment Eligibility
Proof of work authorization in the United States
CT background check consent
Authorization for Connecticut State Police criminal background check
PCA training completion
Certificate of completing required PCA orientation and training program
CPR/First Aid certification
Current certification in CPR and basic first aid
Direct deposit enrollment
Bank account details for electronic payment processing
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the PCA Waiver in Connecticut?
You must be between 18 and 64 years old, enrolled in Medicaid, have a physical disability requiring hands-on assistance with daily activities, and be able to direct your own care or have a representative to do so.
Can a family member be my PCA in Connecticut?
Yes. Family members such as adult children, parents, and siblings can serve as your PCA. However, spouses are not eligible to be paid PCAs under this program.
How many hours of PCA service can I receive?
Hours are based on your individual assessment. The program provides up to 40 hours per week of PCA services. Your care plan determines the specific number of hours based on your needs.
Is there a waitlist for the PCA Waiver?
Yes. Connecticut's PCA Waiver typically has a waitlist of 3 to 6 months. You should apply as early as possible and stay in contact with DSS about your waitlist position.
What is the PCA pay rate in Connecticut?
PCA rates range from $22.00 to $23.00 per hour, among the highest in the country. This reflects Connecticut's higher cost of living.
What happens when I turn 65?
The PCA Waiver is for ages 18-64. When you turn 65, you transition to the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE), which offers similar self-directed options for seniors.
Ready to check your eligibility?
Answer a few questions and we'll tell you if you qualify for Connecticut's PCA Waiver program.