Understanding the roles of your Care Manager, Fiscal Intermediary (FI), and Broker

Starting Self-Direction can feel overwhelming—there are a lot of people involved, and it’s not always clear who’s responsible for what. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand who to contact and when.

Care Manager

Your main point of contact and connection to the OPWDD system.

They are responsible for:

• Helping you get OPWDD eligibility and coordinating assessments
• Creating and updating your Life Plan
• Organizing Circle of Support meetings at least twice a year
• Referring you to services like medical, behavioral, housing, and therapies

Contact your Care Manager when:

• You need new or additional services
• There are changes in needs, diagnosis, or family situation
• You have questions about Medicaid or other benefits

Fiscal Intermediary (FI)

The financial administrator and employer for your self-hired staff.

They are responsible for:

• Processing payroll for self-hired staff (Respite, ComHab, etc.)
• Collecting and reviewing receipts and reimbursements
• Making sure your spending follows the rules
• Submitting and managing your Self-Direction budget

Contact your FI when:

• You want to hire or replace a staff member
• There are payment issues or missing timesheets
• You need to check remaining funds or balances
• You have questions about receipts, reimbursements, or OTPS/IDGS rules

Self-Direction Broker

Your personal guide through the Self-Direction process.

They are responsible for:

• Helping you complete the Start-Up process
• Creating a personalized Self-Direction budget
• Supporting the hiring and training of staff
• Finding classes, memberships, programs, and activities that match your needs
• Providing training and technical support to you and your Circle of Support
• Helping with changes to your plan or budget over time

Contact your Broker when:

• You need help with staff recruitment or scheduling
• You want to explore new activities or services
• You’re unsure how to use or adjust your budget
• You have questions about Self-Direction rules or next steps