PPL First is the statewide Fiscal Intermediary responsible for administering the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in New York. As part of the state’s effort to modernize and strengthen oversight of the program, New York transitioned to a centralized fiscal intermediary model in which PPL First manages payroll, administrative services, and compliance responsibilities.

This change is designed to simplify the CDPAP system while maintaining the independence that the program provides to consumers. With PPL First overseeing administrative operations, individuals receiving services through CDPAP can continue directing their own care while ensuring that caregivers are properly enrolled, paid accurately, and supported through a standardized statewide system.

At Sincere Care Agency, we help individuals and families understand how the transition to PPL First affects their services and what steps are needed to remain enrolled in the CDPAP program.

The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) is a Medicaid-funded home care program in New York that allows eligible individuals to choose and manage their own caregivers. Unlike traditional home care services where caregivers are assigned by an agency, CDPAP gives the consumer the ability to select someone they trust, which may include a family member or close friend.

Under CDPAP, the consumer (or their designated representative) is responsible for directing the caregiver’s work, including tasks such as:

• Scheduling care
• Training caregivers
• Supervising daily activities
• Managing care preferences

Many individuals who work with Sincere Care Agency choose CDPAP because it allows them to receive care from someone they know and trust while still receiving the administrative support required by the program.

New York State restructured the CDPAP fiscal intermediary system to improve efficiency, strengthen program oversight, and create a more consistent administrative process across the state. In the past, numerous fiscal intermediaries operated independently, which created variations in administrative procedures and compliance practices.

By transitioning to PPL First as the statewide fiscal intermediary, New York established a centralized system that standardizes payroll processing, caregiver enrollment, and regulatory compliance. This approach allows the state to better manage the program while preserving the self-directed nature that makes CDPAP valuable for consumers and families.

While CDPAP consumers remain responsible for selecting and directing their caregivers, PPL First manages the administrative and financial aspects of the program. As the fiscal intermediary, PPL First processes caregiver payroll, manages tax documentation, and ensures that employment records are properly maintained in accordance with Medicaid and New York State regulations. The organization also oversees timesheet processing and payment distribution so caregivers are paid accurately and on schedule.

In addition to payroll administration, PPL First helps ensure that both consumers and caregivers meet program requirements by handling enrollment documentation, maintaining employment records, and supporting compliance with state guidelines. By centralizing these administrative tasks, PPL First allows consumers to focus on directing their care while ensuring the program operates smoothly behind the scenes.

For individuals currently receiving services through CDPAP, completing the transition to PPL First is essential to ensure there are no interruptions in care or caregiver compensation. The transition process typically involves:

1. Registering with PPL First as a CDPAP consumer or representative
2. Enrolling your caregiver(s) in the PPL First system
3. Completing required employment and program documentation
4. Submitting timesheets through the PPL First platform

Once the transition is completed, caregivers can continue submitting timesheets and receiving payment through the PPL First system. Taking these steps early helps prevent delays in caregiver payments and ensures services continue without disruption.

For many consumers and caregivers, Sincere Care Agency provides guidance throughout this process, helping ensure the transition to PPL First is completed correctly and efficiently.

Although PPL First is responsible for the administrative functions of the program, many consumers and caregivers benefit from additional guidance when navigating the transition. Understanding enrollment requirements, documentation, and compliance steps can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly for individuals who are new to the process.

The Sincere Care Agency team works with individuals and families to help them understand the CDPAP program and successfully complete the transition to PPL First. By providing guidance throughout the process, we help ensure that consumers maintain access to the care they rely on while caregivers remain properly registered and able to receive payment.

The transition to PPL First marks an important update to how the CDPAP program operates in New York, but the program’s core purpose remains unchanged. Individuals still have the freedom to choose their caregivers and direct the care they receive while living independently in their own homes.

By completing the transition to PPL First and staying informed about program requirements, both consumers and caregivers can continue benefiting from the flexibility and support that CDPAP provides. Sincere Care Agency remains committed to helping individuals navigate these changes and continue receiving the care they rely on.