Colorado Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS)
Colorado's CDASS program gives participants full control over hiring and managing their own caregivers, including family members. This self-directed option provides maximum flexibility in how care is delivered.
Prefer to talk?
(800) 555-0001How the Colorado Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS) Works
Colorado's CDASS program is unique in that it provides a monthly budget that you control. You hire, train, supervise, and if necessary, terminate your own attendants — including family members (except spouses in most cases).
As the employer, you set schedules and determine how your budget is spent within program guidelines. A Financial Management Services (FMS) agency handles payroll, taxes, and workers' compensation.
Colorado's mountain communities and rural areas particularly benefit from this model, as family caregiving often provides the most practical solution where professional caregivers may be scarce.
Who Qualifies in Colorado?
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be enrolled in Health First Colorado (Colorado Medicaid)
- Must be enrolled in a Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waiver
- Must be able to direct your own care or have an authorized representative
- Colorado residents only
- Must meet functional eligibility criteria
Who Can Be a Caregiver?
- Adult children
- Siblings & relatives
- Trusted friends
- Spouses (varies by program)
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado's Program
CDASS is a consumer-directed model, meaning you act as the employer of your caregivers. You receive a monthly budget and have complete control over hiring, scheduling, and managing your care. This provides more flexibility than agency-directed models.
Yes, adult children, parents (of adult recipients), siblings, and other family members can be hired as CDASS attendants. However, spouses generally cannot be paid caregivers under this program in Colorado.
Your budget is based on an assessment of your care needs conducted by a case manager. The assessment evaluates your functional limitations and determines how many hours of care you require. Your budget is then calculated based on approved hours multiplied by the state-set hourly rate.
Colorado provides supports including a Financial Management Services (FMS) agency that handles payroll and taxes, case management services, and training resources. You're not alone in managing the administrative aspects of being an employer.
Yes, Colorado recognizes the unique challenges in rural mountain communities. The CDASS model is particularly beneficial in rural areas where professional caregivers may be unavailable, allowing families to provide paid care even in remote locations.
Ready to Get Started in Colorado?
Check your eligibility for the Colorado Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS) today.
Call (800) 555-0001