Steps to Enroll in Florida CDC Plus from iBudget to First Hire

Welcome to CDC Plus Enrollment

Moving from iBudget into CDC Plus gives you more control over your daily supports in Florida. The process takes time but follows clear steps from application to hiring your first caregiver.

Confirm all details with a CDC Plus consultant, F/EA, or plan case manager before you begin. Phone the CDC Plus helpline at 1 866 761 7043 for questions.

Learn the Basics First

CDC Plus is the self directed option under the iBudget waiver. You choose and manage your own caregivers instead of using an agency. Your budget stays the same but you gain flexibility in day to day decisions.

Review the official APD pages to understand the program before you apply.

Confirm Your iBudget Status

1. Contact your current support coordinator to discuss the switch.
2. Ask if your waiver slot allows CDC Plus enrollment.
3. Gather recent service authorizations and budget documents.
4. Check that you live in Florida and meet APD eligibility rules.

Submit the CDC Plus Application

1. Fill out the CDC Plus enrollment forms with help from your coordinator.
2. Send the packet to APD for review.
3. Wait for approval notice which usually arrives within several weeks.
4. Complete any required training sessions listed in your approval letter.

Prepare for Background Screening

Every caregiver you hire must pass screening before they start work.

1. Direct each new hire to the APD background screening page.
2. Have them create an account in the Florida Clearinghouse system.
3. Pay any required fees and schedule fingerprinting if needed.
4. Wait for results before the person begins providing supports.

Use Site Tools to Find and Hire Staff

Visit the job board at /jobs to post your open position. Many families also try caregiver matching at /caregivers to see local profiles.

Print or download the hiring checklist from /tools before interviews begin. This list helps you stay organized through reference checks and first day paperwork.

Set Up Timesheets and Backup Support

Once your first hire is approved use the timesheet helper in /tools to track hours correctly. The emergency backup tool at /tools lets you list family members or other approved helpers for times when your regular caregiver is unavailable.

Final Checklist Before First Day

1. Confirm the caregiver passed all screenings.
2. Complete the employee agreement and submit it to your fiscal agent.
3. Schedule orientation using the hiring checklist.
4. Test the timesheet helper with a sample entry.
5. Add backup contacts in the emergency tool.

Keep Records and Stay in Touch

Save copies of every form and approval email. Reach out to your consultant whenever your needs change. Many families find the process smoother after the first hire is complete.

Stay patient and take one step at a time. Florida families successfully complete this path every month with the right preparation.