Learn how PPL CDPAP works and how to become a paid caregiver

If you're caring for a loved one in New York and want to get paid for your support, the PPL CDPAP program might be the solution you’ve been looking for. CDPAP — the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program — allows Medicaid recipients to choose someone they trust to be their paid caregiver. That person can be a family member, friend, or trusted individual.

Public Partnerships LLC, also known as PPL, is one of the largest Fiscal Intermediaries (FIs) in New York State. They work directly with CDPAP participants and caregivers to manage payroll, tax paperwork, and compliance with Medicaid requirements.

This blog will walk you through how PPL CDPAP works, who qualifies, how to enroll, and what to expect once you're approved. Whether you're new to caregiving or already helping a loved one, understanding this process can help you turn your time and care into paid work — legally and professionally.

What Is PPL CDPAP?

The PPL CDPAP model is simple: the person receiving care (called the “consumer”) selects their own caregiver and takes on some of the responsibilities of an employer. PPL then steps in to handle everything on the administrative side:

• Managing caregiver payments
• Processing electronic timesheets
• Handling employment documents and taxes
• Complying with Medicaid and EVV (Electronic Visit Verification) rules

This structure empowers families and allows for care in a familiar, culturally appropriate setting. It also ensures that caregivers are fairly compensated and protected under state laws.

Who Can Be a CDPAP Caregiver?

Under the CDPAP program, nearly anyone can become a paid caregiver — as long as they meet basic qualifications and are not the patient’s spouse. Accepted relationships include:

• Adult children
• Relatives (siblings, cousins, grandchildren, etc.)
• Friends
• Neighbors

Caregivers do not need to be certified as Home Health Aides (HHAs) or Personal Care Aides (PCAs). The CDPAP program values trust and relationships over credentials.

Who Is Eligible for CDPAP?

To qualify for CDPAP through PPL, the consumer must:

• Be a New York State resident
• Have active Medicaid coverage
• Need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or mobility
• Be able to direct their own care or have a designated representative who can

How to Enroll in PPL CDPAP (Step-by-Step)

1. Medicaid Verification: The consumer must have active New York Medicaid. If they do not, they will need to apply before moving forward.
2. Assessment: A nurse from the consumer’s Managed Long-Term Care (MLTC) plan visits to evaluate their needs and determine how many hours of care will be approved.
3. Select a Fiscal Intermediary: The consumer chooses PPL as their Fiscal Intermediary to handle caregiver payments and compliance.
4. Register with PPL: PPL will send a package with registration forms. The consumer and caregiver must complete employment documents, ID verification, direct deposit setup, and tax forms.
5. Begin Work: Once all documents are approved and processed by PPL, the caregiver can begin working and clocking in/out using PPL’s EVV system. Caregivers are paid biweekly.

How Much Do PPL CDPAP Caregivers Get Paid?

Rates vary depending on the county and the consumer’s MLTC plan. However, many caregivers under PPL CDPAP in New York earn between $18 to $21.09 per hour. Some plans may also offer overtime if applicable.

What Documents Are Required?

• Consumer's Medicaid number and MLTC plan details
• Caregiver’s government-issued ID
• Social Security card
• Banking information for direct deposit
• Signed employment forms (W-4, I-9, etc.)
• Proof of relationship if applicable

How PPL Manages Your Employment

• Tracks hours worked
• Submits payments via direct deposit or pay card
• Issues tax forms (W-2s at year end)
• Provides a portal or app for caregivers to manage their schedule

Frequently Asked Questions About PPL CDPAP

• Do I need a background check?PPL may conduct basic checks to ensure caregivers meet eligibility. These are generally straightforward and focused on identity confirmation.
• Can I live with the person I care for?Yes. Many CDPAP caregivers live with their consumer, especially when providing 24/7 support.
• How often do I get paid?PPL pays caregivers every two weeks through direct deposit or a payment card.
• Can the same person switch to another FI?Yes. Consumers may switch from one Fiscal Intermediary to another, including to or from PPL, by submitting updated forms through their MLTC.

Why Choose PPL as Your Fiscal Intermediary?

• One of New York’s largest and most experienced FIs
• Easy-to-use caregiver portals and mobile apps
• Timely payroll and reliable support teams
• Trusted by thousands of caregivers statewide

Final Thoughts

The PPL CDPAP model gives families the flexibility, financial relief, and control they deserve. With PPL as your FI, you can focus on what matters most — providing quality care to the people you love — while they handle the administrative burden.

If you or someone you know is eligible, begin the process today by contacting your Medicaid plan and requesting a CDPAP assessment. Once approved, select PPL as your Fiscal Intermediary and follow the steps outlined above to complete enrollment.

Care with love. Get paid with dignity. That’s the power of PPL CDPAP in New York.

If you’ve had a difficult experience with PPL — whether it’s delayed payments, system errors, or onboarding issues — you’re not alone. In such cases, families may explore alternative care options. If CDPAP isn’t working out, you can still get your loved one the care they need through New York’s traditional PCA program.

Cottage Home Care Services can help you register your parent under the PCA program and provide reliable, compassionate support by sending a trained and certified Home Health Aide (HHA) caregiver. Our HHAs are fully vetted and ready to assist with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, meal prep, and more — all under professional supervision and with Medicaid-covered services.

If you need help making the switch or simply want consistent, high-quality care, contact Cottage Home Care today. We’re here to ensure your loved one is never left without support.