Maxim FMS has developed a straightforward and supportive process that allows you to enable seamless self-directed care, when, how and where you want it.
What does it mean to self-direct?
Self-direction lets you decide who provides your support, when they work and how tasks are done. You hire friends, family or community members you trust, set their schedule and design services around your lifestyle.
Getting started in four steps
1. Confirm eligibility:
Ask your case manager if your waiver or program offers self-direction.
2. Select an FMS:
Choose Maxim FMS (or another approved provider) to set up payroll and taxes.
3. Complete employer paperwork:
We’ll help you obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if the program requires it, and finish all enrollment forms.
4. Recruit and train:
Post your job, interview and create a simple orientation checklist so your worker understands your preferences from day one.
Your first 90 days: What to expect
Week 1:
You and your worker download evvie, practice clock-ins and set a regular schedule.
Weeks 2 – 4:
FMS sends your first budget summary and adjusts hours if needed.
Month 2:
Case manager checks in to share what’s working and where you’d like more support.
Month 3:
Review worker performance to celebrate wins, refine routines or hire additional help.
Is self-direction right for you?
Use the questions below to assess your comfort level.
Answer Yes / No / Not Sure:
- Do you know someone you could hire as a worker?
- Can you find someone you trust to help you hire a worker?
- Can you show a worker how to provide the care you need?
- Can you tell a worker what you like or don’t like about their work?
- Can you manage a worker’s schedule and hours?
If some answers were “No” or “Not Sure,” self-direction can still fit your life. Many participants appoint a representative or lean on their support broker for extra help. The key question is whether choice and control matter enough to you to learn a few new skills, and plenty of people decide they do.
Your key responsibilities
Hiring and selection
Posting an ad, interviewing candidates and completing the necessary employment eligibility steps—including USCIS Form I-9—and performing candidate background checks to ensure a smooth and compliant hiring process.
Scheduling
Creating weekly calendars so workers don’t exceed approved hours.
Training and feedback
Showing each worker exactly how you like things done and providing constructive praise or corrections.
Budget oversight
Checking the monthly FMS budget report and adjusting hours if needed.
You’re not alone. Meet your support team.
Remember: You’re in charge, but never alone.
Case Manager / Support Coordinator:
Helps craft your service plan, monitors health and safety and checks in regularly.
Support Broker (in some states):
Teaches you how to recruit, hire and supervise workers; troubleshoots challenges.
Financial Management Service (FMS):
Handles payroll, taxes and EVV so your workers get paid and your records stay compliant.
Representative (optional):
A trusted friend or family member you officially appoint to take on some or all employer duties.
Keep growing
Self-direction isn’t static. As your goals evolve with more community outings, a job or extra respite, your team can modify the plan, update the budget and onboard new workers. With every tweak, you remain the decision-maker and Maxim FMS keeps the books balanced.
Ready to dive in?
Whether you’re choosing an FMS, downloading evvie or deciding if self-direction fits your life, remember: you call the shots, we handle the paperwork.
Ready to take the next steps with Maxim FMS as your preferred FMS provider? Get started by contacting your local Maxim office support team.
