Step 1: Complete the DHS PCA/CFSS Support Worker Training & Test

All CFSS support workers in Minnesota must pass the free Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) training and certification test before they can start working.

1. Study the training (optional, recommended): PCA and CFSS Workers Training. You can review it as many times as you need. The training is also available in other languages.
2. Register for the test: Go to the DHS PCA and CFSS Training and Tests page. From the drop-down menu, choose “PCA/CFSS support workers” and fill in your information. Use an email address you check often.
3. Check your email for the link to the training and exam.
4. Pass the test. It’s free, and you can retake it until you pass.
5. Print or save your certificate and send a copy to AlchemyMN at intake@alchemymn.com. Keep a copy for your records.

Step 2: Background Study

Every support worker must clear a DHS background study before working with clients. AlchemyMN starts the study for you after you are offered a position. You may need to complete fingerprinting and a photo at an approved location — we’ll send you instructions.

Step 3: Complete Onboarding With AlchemyMN

Bring or send the following to our office:

• Your DHS PCA/CFSS training certificate
• Government-issued photo ID and documents for the I-9 employment eligibility form
• Completed W-4 and Minnesota W-4MN tax forms
• Direct deposit information
• Signed AlchemyMN employee policies and job description

We’ll also train you on your client’s service plan and how to record your time.

Who Can Be a CFSS Support Worker?

• Must pass the DHS PCA/CFSS training test and a DHS background study
• Must meet DHS age and training requirements (under 18? Ask us.)
• Must be able to effectively communicate with the client and follow the service plan
• Family members can be paid. Under CFSS, eligible spouses and parents of minor children may be paid as support workers, for up to 60 hours a week (80 hours combined if both parents work), at the standard support worker rate.

Working With Your Client

• Follow the service delivery plan. Only provide the services listed in your client’s plan.
• Record your time accurately. Minnesota requires Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) for CFSS. Clock in and out for every shift using the method AlchemyMN provides.
• Report incidents right away. Call our office for any injury, fall, emergency, or change in your client’s condition. Call 911 first in an emergency.
• Mandated reporting. If you suspect abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult, report it to the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC) at 1-844-880-1574.
• Protect privacy. Never share client information with anyone who is not part of their care team.

Employee Forms

Download, complete, and return these forms to AlchemyMN at intake@alchemymn.com or bring them to our office.

Form	What it’s for	Link
DHS PCA/CFSS Training Certificate	Required before you can work. Register, take the test, or look up your certificate.	DHS Training & Certificate
Form I-9	Employment eligibility verification. Bring original ID documents on your first day.	USCIS Form I-9
Form W-4	Federal income tax withholding.	IRS Form W-4 (PDF)
Form W-4MN	Minnesota income tax withholding.	MN Revenue Form W-4MN
Employment Application	Apply online and upload your resume and certificate.	Apply Online

AlchemyMN will provide your direct deposit form, employee handbook acknowledgment, job description, and other agency forms during onboarding.

Helpful Links

• DHS PCA/CFSS Training, Test & Certificate Lookup
• DHS PCA/CFSS Worker Training
• DHS Training — More Information
• Minnesota DHS — About CFSS
• Apply to AlchemyMN