FAQs
Get answers to all of your questions here.
Adult FAQs
Are there new requirements for caregivers?
There is increased focus on accurate documentation, approved tasks, and limits on weekly caregiver hours. These changes are expected in 2026–2027.
How ANIMO helps: We train and support caregivers to stay compliant and avoid issues.
Can I choose my caregiver?
Yes. Many programs allow you to choose your own caregiver, including family members.
How ANIMO helps: We handle onboarding, training, and payroll so everything is set up correctly.
Do I need Medicaid to receive these services?
Yes. These services are Medicaid-funded and require active coverage (or an application in progress), along with an assessment and approval.
How ANIMO helps: We guide you through the application and next steps so you can get started without confusion.
How do I know what I qualify for?
Eligibility is determined through an assessment and service plan created with your case manager.
How ANIMO helps: We help you prepare for the assessment so your needs are clearly understood and reflected.
How long does it take to start services?
It depends on Medicaid approval, assessments, and authorization timelines. However, you must be prepared for waiting a minimum of 3 months.
How ANIMO helps: We help avoid common delays and keep your process moving forward.
How much does ANIMO pay caregivers?
We use a blended base rate model to provide competitive, stable pay within Medicaid guidelines.
How ANIMO helps: This ensures fair compensation while maintaining reliable care.
What is respite?
Respite provides temporary care so your primary caregiver can rest or manage other responsibilities.
How ANIMO helps: We can hire a family member or friend to provide respite, or staff a compatible caregiver to provide respite care for you.
What’s the difference between a waiver and IHSS?
A waiver is a Medicaid program that allows states to use Medicaid funds to provide in-home or community-based services to people with greater needs. . IHSS is a self-directed option that allows you to choose and manage your caregiver. You do not need a waiver to qualify for CFC, but you do need to meet eligibility criteria for the CFC program.
How ANIMO helps: Obtaining a waiver can be a lengthy process, we coordinate with your case manager to evaluate if CFC or a Waiver is the best option for you.
Will my services stay the same over time?
Services are reviewed annually and may change as time passes or needs change.
How ANIMO helps: We help ensure you or your child’s needs continue to be documented accurately. Our nurses provide bi-monthly supervisory visits that document the progress of our clients needs. This information becomes essential when renewal assessments are held annually with your case manager. We advocate for changes with documentation.
Children FAQs
Are there new requirements for caregivers?
There is increased focus on accurate documentation, approved tasks, and limits on weekly caregiver hours. These changes are expected in 2026–2027.
How ANIMO helps: We train and support caregivers to stay compliant and avoid issues.
Can I choose my child’s caregiver?
Yes. Many programs, like IHSS, allow parents or trusted family members to be the caregiver.
How ANIMO helps: We handle onboarding, training, and payroll so everything is set up correctly.
Does my child need Medicaid to receive services?
Yes. These services are Medicaid-funded and require active coverage (or an application in progress), along with an assessment and approval.
How ANIMO helps: We guide your family through the application and next steps so you can get started without confusion.
How do I know what my child qualifies for?
Eligibility is determined through an assessment and service plan created with your child’s case manager.
How ANIMO helps: We help you prepare so your child’s needs are clearly understood and fully represented.
How long does it take to start services?
It depends on Medicaid approval, assessments, and authorization timelines. However, you must be prepared for waiting a minimum of 3 months.
How ANIMO helps: We help avoid common delays and keep your process moving forward.
How much does ANIMO pay caregivers?
We use a blended base rate model to provide competitive, stable pay within Medicaid guidelines.
How ANIMO helps: This ensures fair compensation while maintaining reliable care.
