How Families Can Hire Their Own Staff Through OPWDD Self-Direction

For many families participating in the OPWDD Self Direction program, one of the biggest advantages is the ability to hire their own support staff. Instead of relying solely on agency-assigned workers, Self Direction allows families to choose caregivers who truly understand the individual’s needs, personality, and goals.

This flexibility helps create more personalized services and stronger relationships between individuals and their support staff.

In this guide, we’ll explain how families can hire their own staff through Self Direction, the types of workers commonly hired, pay rates, and how payroll works through a Fiscal Intermediary.

What Does Hiring Your Own Staff Mean in OPWDD Self-Direction?

Under traditional OPWDD services, agencies typically assign staff members to provide care and support. While this structure works for some families, it may not always provide the level of flexibility or personal connection families want. Self-direction changes this by allowing individuals or their caregivers to recruit and hire their own workers.

This means families can choose staff who:

• Understand the individual’s personality and needs

• Share similar interests

• Fit well with the family’s schedule

• Provide consistent and reliable support

Having the ability to choose staff can significantly improve service quality and overall satisfaction with the Self-Direction program.

Types of Staff Families Can Hire Through OPWDD Self-Direction

Families participating in Self Direction commonly hire workers for two main services:

Community Habilitation (Com-Hab)

Community habilitation workers help individuals develop skills that support independence and community participation.

These services may include:

• Practicing daily living skills

• Learning how to travel safely in the community

• Participating in social activities

• Building communication and social skills

• Supporting hobbies and interests

Com-Hab services are often focused on helping individuals achieve goals listed in their Life Plan.

Respite Workers

Respite services provide temporary relief for caregivers while ensuring the individual receives appropriate supervision and support.

Respite workers may assist with:

• Overnight supervision

• Weekend care

• Short-term caregiving needs

• Supporting the individual during family emergencies

This service helps families maintain balance while ensuring their loved one continues to receive quality care.

How to Find Support Staff

One of the most common questions families ask is where to find qualified workers.

Families may recruit staff from several sources, including:

• Friends or family members (if allowed under OPWDD guidelines)

• Community networks

• Colleges and universities

• Job boards or online postings

• Referrals from other families in the Self-Direction program

Many families find that workers who already know the individual often provide the most comfortable and supportive environment.

However, all staff must still meet OPWDD hiring requirements.

Background Checks and Hiring Requirements

Before a worker can begin providing services, they must complete certain requirements.

These requirements typically include:

• Background checks

• Employment paperwork

• Required training

• Documentation through the Fiscal Intermediary

These steps ensure that staff members are qualified and approved to work within the Self-Direction program. Families do not need to handle these steps alone. The Fiscal Intermediary (FI) typically assists with the hiring and onboarding process.

How Payroll Works Through the Fiscal Intermediary in OPWDD Self-Direction

Although families choose their own staff, they do not directly manage payroll.

Instead, payments are handled through a Fiscal Intermediary.

The FI is responsible for:

• Processing staff payroll

• Handling tax documentation

• Managing Medicaid billing

• Ensuring compliance with OPWDD regulations

This system allows families to choose their workers without payroll responsibilities.

Pay Rates for Staff in OPWDD Self-Direction

OPWDD sets general guidelines for staff pay rates.

Although the exact amount may vary depending on the Fiscal Intermediary, typical pay ranges include:

• Community Habilitation workers: approximately $32–$36 per hour

• Respite workers: up to $22 per hour

A portion of the budget also covers a fringe rate, which helps pay for workers’ compensation and other employment-related costs. Understanding these pay ranges helps families plan their Self Direction budget more effectively.

Benefits of Hiring Your Own Staff Through OPWDD Self-Direction

Self-direction has become increasingly popular among families in New York City because it provides flexibility that traditional services cannot always offer.

Benefits include:

• Choosing your own staff

• Flexible schedules

• Personalized services

• Greater independence for individuals with disabilities

For many families, this level of control helps create a more supportive and empowering environment.

Hiring your own staff through OPWDD Self Direction allows families to create a support system that truly meets their needs. With the ability to choose caregivers, set schedules, and personalize services, Self Direction offers a level of flexibility that traditional services may not provide. If you’re exploring Self Direction and need help navigating the process, working with an experienced Self Direction broker in NYC can make a significant difference. A knowledgeable broker can guide you through every step, from budget planning to staff hiring, ensuring your Self-Direction plan works smoothly.