Understanding Self-Direction and Financial Management Service FMS Agencies

Self-direction is more than just a buzzword—it’s a way for people to take charge of their care and live life on their own terms. Whether it’s a young adult with a disability or a senior who wants to stay independent at home, self-direction gives individuals and families more control over who provides care, when it happens, and how it’s delivered.

In this chapter, we’ll break down the basics of self-directed care and answer the most common questions from both families and agencies.

What Does Self-Directed Care Mean?

Self-directed care means that the person receiving support—often called the participant—gets to choose and manage their own caregivers. This can include hiring a family member, neighbor, or friend to provide support, as long as they meet basic qualifications.

Rather than having a home care agency assign caregivers, self-directing individuals become the “boss.” They decide:

• Who provides care
• What tasks the caregiver does
• When and where care happens

This model can apply to everything from help with bathing and dressing, to meal preparation, transportation, or even managing medications.

Why Is Self-Direction Becoming So Popular?

People like having a say in their own care. Self-direction offers:

• More freedom and flexibility
• Familiar caregivers (often someone the participant already knows)
• Customized support based on personal routines and goals
• A greater sense of dignity and independence

For many families, it also solves practical problems—like finding a caregiver who speaks their language or understands their culture.

Who Can Use Self-Directed Services?

Self-direction is often available to:

• Adults with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities
• Seniors who qualify for Medicaid home- and community-based services (HCBS)
• Parents or legal guardians who want to self-direct services for a child with disabilities

Eligibility and options vary by state, but in general, self-direction is part of Medicaid waiver programs or managed care plans.

What Types of Services Can Be Self-Directed?

The specific services that can be self-directed depend on the state, but common examples include:

• Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
• Homemaker services (meal prep, laundry, light cleaning)
• Companionship and supervision
• Respite care
• Transportation
• Community participation or job coaching

Some programs even allow participants to control budget decisions, such as purchasing assistive technology or paying for non-traditional supports that improve quality of life.

How Is Self-Direction Different from Traditional Home Care?

This comparison highlights why self-direction feels more personal and empowering.

Common Myths About Self-Direction

Let’s clear up a few misconceptions:

❌ Myth: You have to handle everything yourself
✅ Truth: FMS agencies help manage payroll, taxes, and compliance so participants can focus on care.

❌ Myth: Only professionals can be paid caregivers
✅ Truth: Many programs allow friends and family (even adult children) to be paid caregivers.

❌ Myth: It’s too complicated for most people
✅ Truth: With the right support, most participants manage just fine—and often thrive.

Real-Life Example: Maria’s Story

Maria, a 74-year-old living in New Mexico, was frustrated with traditional home care. Caregivers were often late or didn’t show up. Through her state’s self-direction program, Maria hired her niece to help her with meals and errands. Now, she feels safer and more connected—and her niece is earning a fair wage for helping a loved one.

Stories like Maria’s are common and remind us why this model matters.

Bonus: The journey of a Self-Directing Participant

Next Up: What Is an FMS Agency (and Why Do They Matter)? Self-direction is powerful—but it doesn’t work without structure. In the next chapter, we’ll explore how Financial Management Service agencies make it possible for people to manage care without drowning in paperwork or compliance headaches.

If self-direction is about freedom and choice, Financial Management Service (FMS) agencies are what make that freedom work in the real world.

Self-directing a care plan means someone becomes the employer of their caregivers. That’s exciting—but it also brings a list of responsibilities: hiring paperwork, payroll, taxes, background checks, insurance, and more. For most people, that’s too much to handle alone.

That’s where FMS agencies step in. They take care of the complicated parts so participants can focus on living their lives and receiving care that meets their needs.

What Does an FMS Agency Actually Do?

FMS agencies are like the payroll department, HR, and compliance team rolled into one—for people receiving self-directed services.

Here are just some of the tasks FMS agencies handle:

• Enroll caregivers and verify that they meet program rules
• Process timesheets and calculate pay
• Run payroll and pay employment taxes
• Track budgets and spending caps
• Ensure compliance with Medicaid rules
• Provide reports to states and managed care organizations

By handling all this behind the scenes, FMS agencies make it possible for individuals to be in charge—without being overwhelmed.

Other Names You Might Hear for FMS Agencies

Depending on the state or program, you might hear other terms that mean essentially the same thing:

• Fiscal Intermediary
• Fiscal Agent
• Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent
• Support Broker (in some states, this is a related but separate role)

Regardless of the name, the job is similar: support people in managing their services responsibly, and keep everything above board.

Why FMS Agencies Are a Critical Part of Self-Direction

Without FMS agencies, self-direction would be limited to those who already understand employment law, tax filing, Medicaid rules, and software systems. That’s not realistic.

FMS agencies make the program accessible, scalable, and sustainable. They protect:

• The individual, by helping them avoid legal or financial mistakes
• The caregiver, by ensuring timely and accurate pay
• The state, by ensuring compliance with funding rules and audits

It’s an invisible job, but a vital one.

The Two Main Models: Agency with Choice vs. Employer Authority

Most self-direction programs follow one of two models:

1. Employer Authority (or Fiscal/Employer Agent Model)

• The participant is the legal employer
• They choose, hire, and supervise caregivers
• The FMS agency handles the paperwork and payroll

2. Agency with Choice

• A provider agency acts as the legal employer
• The participant helps select caregivers and direct services
• The agency and participant share responsibility

Different states offer different models—or both. FMS agencies often operate under the Employer Authority model, which gives participants the most control and responsibility.

Who Pays the FMS Agency?

FMS agencies are paid through the Medicaid system, either:

• Directly by the state (in fee-for-service models)
• Through managed care organizations (in states with Medicaid managed care)

Participants don’t pay out of pocket for FMS services. The costs are built into the program, because the support FMS agencies provide is considered essential to making self-direction work safely and legally.

How FMS Agencies Work with States and Managed Care Organizations

FMS agencies don’t operate in a vacuum. They are accountable to:

• State Medicaid departments
• Managed care organizations (MCOs)
• Participants and their representatives

They must follow detailed rules around billing codes, timesheet formats, Electronic Visit Verification (EVV), and more. Many states have strict documentation and audit requirements. A strong FMS agency stays organized, communicates clearly, and uses the right tools to manage all of these moving parts efficiently.

What Makes a Good FMS Agency?

A great FMS agency is more than just a payroll processor. They are a trusted partner that:

• Responds quickly to questions from participants and caregivers
• Offers tools and technology that are easy to use
• Keeps up with changing state policies
• Prevents errors and protects everyone from compliance risks
• Respects the participant’s independence and choices

Agencies that do this well are appreciated by both families and state regulators—and they’re better positioned to grow and succeed.

Next up, let’s walk through what an FMS agency actually does each day—from the first caregiver enrollment to the last payroll run of the month.

Running an FMS agency means balancing care, compliance, and customer service—all while keeping things moving behind the scenes. Every day, these agencies juggle dozens of tasks that keep self-directed care running smoothly for thousands of people.

Whether you're new to the world of FMS or just looking to improve your operations, this chapter gives you a closer look at what the daily workload looks like and where technology and process improvements can make a real difference.

Receiving and Managing Authorizations

It starts with a service authorization. This is the green light from the state or managed care organization (MCO) that says a participant can receive a certain number of hours or services.

FMS agencies must:

• Track and validate authorizations
• Monitor usage to ensure the participant doesn’t go over their budget
• Update care teams when changes occur

Getting this right is crucial. Overuse or underuse of authorized services can result in lost funding, compliance risks, or denied claims.

Enrolling Participants and Caregivers

Once authorization is in place, the next step is onboarding.

FMS agencies help participants:

• Fill out enrollment paperwork
• Understand their responsibilities as an employer
• Complete forms like I-9s, W-4s, and direct deposit authorizations

For caregivers, onboarding includes:

• Background checks (often state-mandated)
• Tax forms
• Verification of eligibility (e.g., checking disqualifying convictions)
• Providing training materials (where required)

The smoother this process is, the faster care can begin—and that matters to families in need.

Processing Timesheets and Approving Hours

One of the most critical (and time-consuming) parts of the job is time tracking.

FMS agencies:

• Collect caregiver time entries—often through an app, web portal, or even paper timesheets
• Confirm that hours are within authorized limits
• Flag overtime, missing signatures, or other issues
• Work with participants and caregivers to correct errors

Accuracy matters here. Incorrect or late timesheets delay pay and cause stress for caregivers and participants alike.

Running Payroll and Paying Taxes

Once timesheets are verified, it’s time to run payroll.

This includes:

• Calculating gross pay and tax withholdings
• Issuing direct deposits or checks
• Withholding and remitting employer taxes
• Generating pay stubs and year-end W-2s

FMS agencies must follow all IRS and state tax rules. They also need to account for workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance, and sometimes union dues—depending on the state.

Monitoring Budgets and Spending Caps

Each participant has a budget set by the state or MCO. It’s the FMS agency’s job to make sure they don’t overspend.

This means:

• Keeping real-time records of what has been spent
• Notifying participants when they’re approaching their limits
• Preventing unauthorized or out-of-scope spending

Good tracking tools can prevent surprises and help participants make the most of their available funding.

Submitting Claims and Billing Medicaid

In most programs, the FMS agency submits claims directly to the state Medicaid system or the participant’s managed care organization.

This process includes:

• Creating and submitting billing files (837 or similar formats)
• Matching billed services to timesheets and authorizations
• Responding to rejected claims
• Posting payments and reconciling records

Timely, accurate billing ensures the agency gets paid and avoids audit risk.

Responding to Calls, Emails, and Support Requests

Participants and caregivers rely on their FMS agency for answers. A typical day includes:

• Helping with login issues or forgotten passwords
• Explaining paycheck details
• Answering questions about hours, approvals, or hiring new caregivers
• Assisting with paperwork corrections

Responsiveness is a huge part of building trust. Agencies that provide fast, friendly support tend to retain both caregivers and clients longer.

Navigating Compliance, EVV, and Audits

FMS agencies operate in a heavily regulated space. Some of the ongoing responsibilities include:

• Complying with Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) requirements
• Maintaining secure documentation for audits
• Responding to requests from Medicaid or MCOs
• Training staff on new rules and best practices

Keeping up with changing policies—especially across multiple states—requires strong systems and clear internal processes.

How Technology Can Simplify Daily Workflows

Modern FMS agencies rely on technology to:

• Automate repetitive tasks (like timesheet validation or payroll processing)
• Provide user-friendly portals for caregivers and participants
• Flag compliance risks before they become problems
• Generate reports with the click of a button

A strong software system can turn hours of manual work into minutes—and free up staff to focus on what really matters: supporting people.

Next up, we’ll shift focus to the people FMS agencies serve—self-directing individuals and families—and what they really want from their FMS partners.

Behind every timesheet and payroll file is a real person—someone relying on care to live independently, stay safe, or support a loved one. That’s why the best FMS agencies don’t just manage paperwork—they build relationships with the people they serve.

In this chapter, we’ll explore what self-directing participants (and their families) need most from FMS agencies, and how thoughtful support can lead to stronger engagement, fewer errors, and better outcomes for everyone.

What Self-Directing Participants Really Want

Most individuals who self-direct aren’t experts in Medicaid or employment law—they’re people managing care in real life. What they want from an FMS agency isn’t complicated:

• Clear instructions without jargon
• Fast, friendly answers when questions come up
• Easy tools that work when they need them
• Respect for their independence and choices

FMS agencies that center the participant experience tend to see fewer errors, faster enrollments, and better retention of caregivers.

Making Enrollment a Smooth Experience

The enrollment process is often the participant’s first impression of their FMS agency. It should feel welcoming—not overwhelming.

Tips for a smooth experience:

• Use plain language and step-by-step guides
• Offer checklists to track required forms
• Provide digital tools when possible (but always offer phone or paper options for those who need them)
• Assign a point of contact for personal support

When participants feel supported during onboarding, they’re more likely to stick with the program and use it effectively.

Tools That Empower, Not Confuse

Technology can be a huge help—or a huge headache. The right tools should:

• Let participants review and approve caregiver hours easily
• Provide budget tracking at a glance
• Send reminders for upcoming deadlines
• Offer mobile access for people who don’t use computers

But good tools go beyond just functionality—they must be intuitive and accessible for people with varying abilities and technology comfort levels.

Building Trust Through Communication

FMS agencies serve a wide variety of people—different ages, abilities, languages, and life experiences. One-size-fits-all communication doesn’t work.

Ways to build trust:

• Provide multilingual support
• Use large print or screen reader–friendly formats
• Offer phone support with real people, not just chatbots
• Avoid technical or medical jargon whenever possible

The more participants feel understood, the more confident they’ll be in using the self-direction program effectively.

Supporting Participants as Employers

One of the biggest challenges in self-direction is that participants become “employers” of their caregivers. Many find this part confusing or intimidating.

FMS agencies can help by:

• Offering simple guides on what it means to be an employer
• Explaining responsibilities like approving time and reporting issues
• Providing reminders and alerts to prevent mistakes
• Encouraging participants to ask questions and seek help

When participants feel confident in their role, they’re more likely to stay engaged and maintain stable care teams.

Helping Caregivers Helps Everyone

Caregivers are the heart of self-directed services—but many face challenges like:

• Delays in getting paid
• Confusing timesheet systems
• Lack of training or orientation

By making caregiver support a priority, FMS agencies indirectly support participants, too. Tips include:

• Offering easy-to-use timesheet tools
• Clearly communicating pay schedules
• Providing basic training on EVV and job expectations
• Treating caregivers with professionalism and respect

Happy caregivers are more likely to stay—and that stability makes a big difference for participants.

Accessibility and Inclusion Matter

FMS agencies must be ready to support participants with:

• Limited English proficiency
• Visual, hearing, or cognitive disabilities
• Limited digital access or computer skills

Inclusive design isn’t just good practice—it’s essential in a program meant to empower people of all backgrounds. Every tool and process should be reviewed through a lens of accessibility.

Next up, we’ll explore how state policies and Medicaid programs shape the self-direction landscape—and what FMS agencies need to know to stay compliant and efficient across different states.

Self-direction is a national movement—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all program. In fact, each state has its own version of self-directed care, shaped by Medicaid rules, waiver programs, and managed care policies. For Financial Management Service (FMS) agencies, understanding these state-by-state differences is essential to running a compliant and efficient operation.

In this chapter, we’ll explore how state decisions affect self-direction programs, what it means for FMS agencies, and how to stay ahead of changing requirements.

The Role of Medicaid in Self-Directed Services

Most self-direction programs in the U.S. are funded through Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These waivers allow states to offer services that help people stay in their homes rather than enter institutional care.

Key facts:

• Self-direction is an optional benefit—not required in all states
• States apply to the federal government for waivers or state plan amendments
• Each state chooses what services to offer and who is eligible

This flexibility means no two state programs look exactly the same, which creates both opportunities and challenges for FMS agencies.

Why States Have Different Rules

States differ based on:

• Population needs (e.g., rural vs. urban)
• Political priorities
• Medicaid budget structures
• Existing service networks

As a result, FMS agencies may encounter major differences across states, such as:

• Required forms and documentation
• Payment schedules and rules
• Caregiver eligibility criteria
• Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) mandates
• Reporting formats (including billing files and audit expectations)

Examples of State-by-State Variation

To illustrate, here are a few real-world examples:

• California has multiple programs, including IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services), with unique timekeeping and compliance rules.
• New York uses a model known as Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), which includes union involvement and wage parity rules.
• Texas offers Employer Authority models and has strict EVV enforcement and payroll schedule requirements.
• Colorado has participant-directed options in several waivers, each with slightly different caregiver and service rules.

For FMS agencies, this means you may need state-specific workflows, software configurations, and staff training for each region you serve.

How State Rules Affect FMS Operations

State policies directly influence how FMS agencies operate. For example:

• A new EVV mandate may require software updates and training
• A policy change on caregiver eligibility may lead to mass re-enrollments
• Changes in authorization formats can disrupt payroll and billing cycles

Agencies that track policy changes closely and communicate proactively with participants and caregivers are better prepared to adapt and avoid service disruptions.

The Role of Applied Self Direction

One organization that plays a big part in shaping and tracking self-direction trends is Applied Self Direction.

They:

• Host national conferences and webinars
• Maintain a directory of state programs
• Provide policy updates and technical assistance
• Advocate for high-quality, participant-centered self-direction

While their audience is mostly policy leaders and state officials, FMS agencies benefit from staying in the loop with their resources. Understanding what’s happening at the national level can help you anticipate what may change in your state.

Best Practices for Multi-State FMS Agencies

If your agency serves multiple states—or plans to—you’ll need a flexible and scalable approach.

Best practices include:

• Using configurable software that supports state-specific workflows
• Assigning state specialists within your staff who stay up-to-date on rules
• Creating state-specific documentation libraries for quick reference
• Regularly reviewing your compliance processes to stay audit-ready

Multi-state operations can open doors for growth, but only if you have the right systems in place.

Preparing for Policy Changes Before They Happen

Medicaid policy isn’t static—states regularly update rules around:

• Budget limits
• Service types
• Caregiver qualifications
• Reporting and documentation

To stay ahead, FMS agencies should:

• Join state mailing lists or provider associations
• Establish strong relationships with Medicaid program staff
• Participate in stakeholder meetings when possible
• Monitor industry updates and policy summaries

The faster you learn about a change, the smoother your transition will be.

Next, we’ll shift gears and focus on growth—how new or expanding FMS agencies can build sustainable operations, avoid common pitfalls, and serve more participants without sacrificing quality.

Whether you're just starting out as a Financial Management Service (FMS) agency or looking to expand your reach across multiple states, growth brings both opportunity and complexity. From enrollment logistics to staffing and technology, scaling your FMS operation requires more than good intentions—it takes smart systems, proactive planning, and a commitment to quality service.

In this chapter, we’ll explore what new FMS agencies need to know, how to avoid common growing pains, and what strategies can help you build a stronger, more sustainable operation.

Starting an FMS Agency: What You Need to Know

Becoming an FMS provider means entering a highly regulated industry with a direct impact on people’s lives. Before taking on your first participant, it’s important to be set up for success.

Here are the core building blocks:

• Understand your state’s model (Employer Authority vs. Agency with Choice)
• Obtain approval and contracts from the state or managed care organizations
• Develop compliance-ready processes for onboarding, payroll, EVV, and reporting
• Invest in FMS-specific software to manage documentation and financials
• Train your team on Medicaid rules, privacy laws, and participant support

The setup phase is your foundation—get it right early, and you’ll prevent issues later.

Common Growing Pains (and How to Avoid Them)

As agencies grow, the cracks often start to show in areas like:

• Manual processes that don’t scale
• Slow caregiver enrollment, leading to delayed care
• Inconsistent communication, creating confusion for participants
• Compliance gaps, putting you at audit risk

Avoid these pitfalls by:

• Automating what you can (especially onboarding and timesheet validation)
• Using standardized workflows and checklists
• Regularly training staff on both technology and soft skills
• Scheduling frequent internal reviews of claims and documentation

Growth should make your agency stronger—not more chaotic.

Staffing for Success: The Roles You’ll Need

A growing FMS agency isn’t just about more clients—it’s about building a team that can serve them well. Consider hiring or assigning:

• Participant Support Specialists – Friendly, knowledgeable staff who guide individuals and families
• Payroll & Compliance Managers – Detail-oriented team members who ensure accuracy and legal compliance
• State Policy Liaisons – People who keep track of state-specific rules and updates
• Technical Support or Trainers – Staff to help caregivers and participants use your systems

You don’t need a huge team—but you do need the right people in the right roles.

Using Software to Unlock Efficiency and Scale

The biggest differentiator between agencies that scale well and those that struggle is technology.

The right FMS software helps you:

• Reduce time spent on manual data entry
• Track service authorizations and usage in real time
• Prevent overbilling and ensure audit-readiness
• Provide better self-service tools for caregivers and participants
• Grow without hiring an army of new staff

Look for systems built specifically for FMS workflows—general-purpose tools often fall short when it comes to Medicaid requirements.

Maintaining Quality While You Grow

As you take on more participants or expand to new states, don’t lose sight of the human side of your work.

Maintain high-quality service by:

• Tracking participant and caregiver satisfaction
• Offering regular training refreshers for staff
• Creating feedback loops for continuous improvement
• Keeping participant support teams appropriately staffed

Growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about your ability to keep every individual supported, informed, and empowered.

Expanding Into New States: What to Consider

Thinking about going multi-state? Here’s what to ask:

• Do we understand the regulatory differences in each state?
• Can our systems handle multiple rule sets?
• Are we staffed to provide localized support where needed?
• Do we have partnerships or contacts in the new region?

Multi-state growth can bring stability and opportunity, but only if it’s managed with care.

Advice From Agencies Who’ve Done It

Agencies that have grown successfully often say:

• “Start with one process and get it really solid before adding more complexity.”
• “Don’t wait too long to upgrade your systems—doing it mid-growth is harder.”
• “Talk to your staff. They know where the bottlenecks are.”
• “Make compliance a priority from day one. It’s harder to fix it later.”

Their biggest takeaway? Growth should be intentional, not accidental.

Next, we’ll dive deeper into one of the most important choices you’ll make: selecting the right software to support your FMS agency and the individuals you serve.

• Behind every well-run FMS agency is a software system doing the heavy lifting. Whether you're processing thousands of timesheets a week or managing caregiver onboarding across multiple states, the technology you choose can either simplify your work—or slow you down.
• In this chapter, we'll break down what features matter most in FMS software, how the right system supports compliance and growth, and what red flags to avoid when evaluating your options.

Why FMS Agencies Can’t Rely on Generic Tools

• You might be tempted to manage your operations with spreadsheets, payroll platforms, or off-the-shelf CRMs. But general-purpose tools often lack what FMS agencies need most:
• Service authorization tracking
• Medicaid-compliant billing and reporting
• Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) integration
• Participant-specific budgeting and alerts
• Caregiver management workflows
• FMS is a specialized field—and your technology should be, too.

Must-Have Features in FMS Software

When evaluating FMS software, look for these core features:

How Good Software Supports Participant Experience

• It’s not just about back-office efficiency. The right software also makes life easier for participants and caregivers.
• Features that improve experience:
• Mobile access for reviewing and approving hours
• Automated reminders for expiring documents or overdue timesheets
• Simple navigation with large fonts, clean design, and no confusing jargon
• Secure messaging to keep communication flowing
• If your software is easy for participants to use, they’re more likely to stay engaged and compliant.

Integration with State and MCO Systems

• As states push for more oversight and accountability, your software must integrate with:
• Medicaid billing platforms
• Managed care portals
• EVV systems
• State-specific enrollment tools
• Look for vendors with experience in your specific states—and the ability to adapt as policies evolve.

Security and Compliance Without the Headaches

• Handling personal and health-related data means you're on the front lines of privacy and security.
• Ensure your software includes:
• HIPAA compliance and data encryption
• Role-based access control
• Audit trails for all user activity
• Regular backups and disaster recovery planning
• Security shouldn't be an afterthought—it should be built in from day one.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• When comparing FMS software options, watch for warning signs like:
• One-size-fits-all platforms with no FMS expertise
• Limited customer support or training resources
• Systems that can’t adapt to state-specific rules
• Long implementation timelines with vague outcomes
• Pricing models that penalize you for growth
• If a system can't flex with your agency or your state's needs, it’s not a good fit—no matter how pretty the demo looks.

Questions to Ask Your Software Partner

• Before signing a contract, ask:
• How many FMS agencies do you serve?
• Which states are you currently operating in?
• How long does implementation take?
• Can you customize workflows for different programs?
• What support is included for participants and caregivers?
• A good partner should feel like a true extension of your team, not just a vendor.

Next, we’ll wrap up this guide with a look at the future of self-direction, the crucial role of FMS agencies, and how technology and empathy will shape the road ahead

Self-direction is more than a service model—it’s a movement rooted in dignity, independence, and the belief that people should have a say in how they live and who supports them. It allows older adults to age with grace, empowers people with disabilities to live full lives in their communities, and gives families the flexibility to care for loved ones on their own terms.

But none of it works without a strong foundation—and that’s where Financial Management Service (FMS) agencies come in.

You’re the behind-the-scenes engine that keeps self-direction running:

• You process the paperwork and timesheets.
• You make sure caregivers get paid.
• You keep states compliant and participants informed.
• You support independence without ever taking center stage.

As this model continues to grow across the country, the demands on FMS agencies will grow, too. State policies will evolve. Compliance requirements will shift. Participants will expect easier, more accessible tools.

The agencies that thrive will be the ones who:

• Stay focused on service and simplicity
• Use technology to lighten the load
• Embrace the changing landscape with flexibility and care

At Ankota, we’re here to help you do exactly that.

We offer software designed specifically for the real-world needs of FMS agencies—software that handles compliance, simplifies workflows, and helps you provide the kind of support that participants truly appreciate. Whether you're serving one state or several, just starting out or scaling up, our mission is to help you deliver self-direction with confidence.

Because when you succeed, people succeed—and that’s what this work is really about.