News & Insights
Expert guides, HCPF policy updates, and wage insights to help you navigate Colorado’s home care system with confidence.
Breaking News: Colorado JBC Approves 56-Hour Cap (March 2026)
On March 12, 2026, the Colorado JBC voted 4-2 to approve the 56-hour caregiver cap. This budget-driven move addresses a $1 billion state deficit. Learn what this means for your family.
Community First Choice: Understanding the PMIP (Professional Medical Information Page)
New Colorado rules require a PMIP for Community First Choice (CFC) for adults and children. Learn how to get your medical provider to certify the ULTC 100.2.
Medicaid Compliance: Why Caregiver “Gifts” are Limited
Are caregiver “sign-on bonuses” too good to be true? In Colorado, they often are. Federal and state Medicaid gift rules strictly prohibit agencies from using cash, gift cards, or expensive perks to influence your choice of provider. Discover why these lures are a major red flag and how Caregivers First Choice prioritizes integrity by putting those dollars directly into your paycheck instead.
The Ultimate Guide to HMA Documentation: How Colorado Families Get Paid for Skilled Care
You aren’t just a “mom” helping out—you are a care specialist managing complex skilled tasks like wound care and respiratory support every single day. But if your paperwork doesn’t match your expertise, the state labels it “unskilled”. We’ve built a guide to help you bulletproof your HMA documentation so you get paid what you’re actually worth. We handle the red tape; you handle the life.
Colorado Minimum Wage 2026: What Every Caregiver Needs to Know
Colorado’s minimum wage changes are shifting the landscape for home care in 2026. Discover how these updates impact your family’s care plan and why ensuring competitive caregiver pay is more important than ever.
Navigating the Shift: What Colorado’s Medicaid Budget Crisis Means for Your Family
Recent Colorado Medicaid budget updates are introducing new changes to In-Home Support Services (IHSS) hours. Learn what these adjustments mean for your family and how to navigate the new landscape without losing essential care.
Decoding the ULTC 100.2 for Colorado Kids | Caregivers First Choice
Navigating the ULTC 100.2 assessment for children can be overwhelming for any family. We break down exactly how this scoring system works and what you need to know to secure the right level of support.
Update: Why Your Hourly Rate Matters More Than Ever (2026)
The Colorado JBC has approved the 56-hour caregiver cap. With hours limited, your hourly pay rate is your only leverage. Learn how to maximize your income through our Life Experience pay tiers.
Update: How to Build Your Trusted Care Team (2026)
The 56-hour caregiver cap is moving forward in Colorado. Learn how to build a trusted care team with family and friends to keep your care hours intact with Radical Ease.
The “I Make Too Much” Myth: Does Your Income Actually Disqualify Your Child from Medicaid?
Understanding Medicaid income limits for children with disabilities in Colorado doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Explore our clear breakdown of the financial thresholds and the alternative pathways to eligibility.
The New Era of Provider Accountability: Why Transparency is the Only Path Forward
The Medicaid expansion has ushered in a new era of strict provider accountability across Colorado. Discover why Caregivers First Choice believes total transparency is the only way to build trust with families and case managers.
Resilience in Caregiving: Navigating New Limits and the History of Colorado’s Medicaid Shortfalls
Colorado’s history of Medicaid budget shortfalls has repeatedly tested the resilience of family caregivers. Read our perspective on navigating the latest care limits while continuing to fiercely advocate for your loved one.
Big News: New Tax Ruling Could Mean a “Hidden Pay Raise” for Live-In Family Caregivers
A recent IRS tax ruling could unlock a significant, hidden pay raise for live-in family caregivers. Find out if you qualify for tax-free wages and how to legally maximize your take-home pay.
2026 Family Caregiver Pay Rates in Colorado: The Tiered Wage Model
Wondering what fair compensation looks like for family caregivers this year? We dive into the 2026 pay rates, including how Caregivers First Choice’s experience-based wage ladder helps you earn up to $23.00 per hour.
Can I Hire My Spouse as a Caregiver in Colorado? (2026 Rules)
Becoming a paid caregiver for your spouse involves navigating highly specific Medicaid rules in Colorado. This guide simplifies the Legally Responsible Person (LRP) limitations so you can provide exceptional care with total confidence.
CDASS vs. Agency-Based Community First Choice: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between CDASS and an agency model under Community First Choice is one of the biggest decisions your family will make. Compare the pros and cons of each to find the perfect operational fit for your lifestyle.
The Zero-Gap Switch: How to Move Your IHSS Care to a Higher-Paying Agency (Without Missing a Check)
Don’t let fear keep you underpaid. Learn the 4-step “Zero-Gap” process to switch your IHSS or CFC care to Caregivers First Choice without missing a single paycheck.
A New Chapter for Arvada Families: Caregivers First Choice Launches in 2026
Caregivers First Choice has officially launched to redefine in-home care in Colorado. See how our commitment to operational efficiency and top-tier caregiver wages is raising the standard for families and case managers alike.
