First Phase Application for HCBS Workforce Incentive Grants due by September 30

Posted on September 20, 2024 by Jeff Bostic

The Home and Community Based services (HCBS) workforce incentive grant program being implemented by DHS is using a two-step process to determine how much funding each provider will receive.

The first phase application is due by Sept. 30. Providers must submit a phase one application to be eligible for funding under the program.

Application Details

In the first round, providers will indicate their interest in offering incentives and how much they would like to give employees. They will also provide information about their eligibility status, which includes being an eligible provider (including assisted living) and being enrolled in Medicaid through DHS.

Nursing homes are eligible according the statute establishing the program, but employees who received incentives through the nursing home-specific incentive program are not eligible. Providers appear to be able to apply for incentives for other employees, although DHS has provided conflicting responses about whether those employees will be funded.

Second Round Details

In a second round, open from November 15 to December 13, providers will submit formal applications for funding. That round will require the submission of information on specific employees, who will need to be notified that their information is being shared with DHS. Providers will receive funding in the first quarter of 2025 and must make payments to employees within 45 days of receiving funds.

This program is similar to the program for workforce incentives for nursing home employees, except that the amount per employee is capped at $1,000 rather than $3,000. The amount is likely to be reduced, as it was for nursing homes, once DHS has all the requests and can calculate the cost of providing incentives. As with the nursing home program, it is up to employers to apply for funding and then make payments to employees.