Many families in Colorado are already providing care at home. Through programs like CFC and IHSS, eligible family members can become paid caregivers. We handle employment, training, and payroll so you can focus on the care.
IHSS + Community First Choice (CFC)
Rate: $18 to $21 per hour.
Pay varies based on service type and level of care authorized.
IHSS allows family members to become trained, paid caregivers for their loved ones at home. No formal certification is required, and most training takes just a few hours. Our team guides you through the entire process.
Your loved one may qualify if they are enrolled in Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and meet eligibility requirements under Community First Choice (CFC). Individuals currently on HCBS waivers are transitioning into CFC through June 30, 2026, and case managers can help determine eligibility.

What IHSS Covers
Health Maintenance
Care that would typically be provided in a clinical or skilled setting, delivered safely at home.
Personal Care
Support with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, mobility, and reminders, with varying levels of hands-on assistance.
Homemaker Services
Non-medical support including cleaning, meal preparation, and household tasks tailored to the individual's needs and age.
Through programs like Community First Choice (CFC) and IHSS, eligible family members, including parents, spouses, and adult children, may be able to serve as paid caregivers for their loved ones.
Our Family First program employs caregivers directly. That means you are not navigating this as an independent contractor or managing your own billing. Total Care Connections handles employment, training, credentialing, and payroll so that the process stays simple and your focus stays on care.
Community First Choice is a Medicaid benefit that allows eligible individuals to receive personal care, homemaker, and health maintenance services in their home. CFC supports participant-directed care, meaning your loved one can choose a family member as their caregiver. Between 2025 and June 30, 2026, individuals who previously received these services through HCBS waivers are transitioning into CFC.
IHSS is a participant-directed service model that allows Health First Colorado members to select and supervise their own caregivers, including family members. Through IHSS, members direct their own care while an approved agency like Total Care Connections handles payroll, training, and administrative support. IHSS continues as a delivery option within CFC and covers personal care, homemaker services, and health maintenance activities.
Some individuals may still access paid family caregiving through Colorado's Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These waivers serve specific populations and continue alongside CFC during the transition period.
Elderly, Blind and Disabled Waiver (EBD)
For adults 65 and older with functional impairments, or adults 18 to 64 who are blind, physically disabled, or living with HIV/AIDS. Covers personal care, homemaker services, respite care, and more.
Supported Living Services Waiver (SLS)
For adults 18 and older with intellectual or developmental disabilities who do not require 24-hour support. Allows family members and others chosen by the individual to serve as paid caregivers.
Brain Injury Waiver (BI)
For individuals 16 and older with a qualifying brain injury that occurred before age 65. Supports in-home care, personal care, and health maintenance services.
Community Mental Health Supports Waiver (CMHS)
For adults 18 and older with severe and persistent mental health needs requiring assistance with daily living activities.
You Don't Have to Do This Alone
Many families come to us feeling frustrated, confused, or stuck in the process. Our role is to simplify everything, advocate for you, and help you move forward with confidence.
Eligibility Support
We help determine whether your loved one qualifies for CFC, IHSS, HCBS waivers, or other programs that allow paid family caregiving.
Complimentary Credentials
All state-mandated training provided at no cost, including First Aid and CPR classes and professional caregiver certification.
Comprehensive Onboarding
We handle background checks, drug screens, and other state regulatory requirements to get you fully credentialed.
Health and Dental Benefits
Caregivers working at least 29 hours per week are eligible for health, dental, vision, and supplemental benefits.
Bilingual Guidance
Our bilingual care managers guide Spanish-speaking families through every step of the onboarding process.
A Clear Path to Getting Started



Little Heroes First
Become your child's professional caregiver with training and full benefits included.

Parent CNA Program
A unique pathway for Colorado parents to earn their CNA and provide paid care for their children.
The kinds of support we provide
From daily routines to specialized needs, care is shaped around what’s required at home.
