1. Program Definition and Services 

Personal Assistance Services (PAS) in Massachusetts, also known as Personal Care Attendant (PCA) services, provide assistance to individuals with chronic or permanent disabilities who require help with activities of daily living (ADLs) to live independently at home. Services include: 

• Assistance with ADLs (bathing, dressing, mobility, toileting, eating) 

• Help with Instrumental ADLs (meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry) 

• Medication management 

• Hands-on physical assistance 

• The program is consumer-directed, allowing participants to hire, train, and manage their own caregivers 

2. Regulations 

PAS in Massachusetts is governed by: 

• 130 CMR 422.000: Personal Care Attendant Services 

• 130 CMR 630.000: Home and Community-Based Services Waiver Services 

3. Licensing or Certification 

PAS providers do not require licensing. However, Personal Care Attendants must meet certain training requirements: 

• Certificate of home health aide training, or 

• Certificate of nurse's aide training, or 

• Certificate of 60-hour personal care training 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) and MassHealth oversee the PCA program 

5. Application Process 

Individuals apply for PAS through MassHealth. The application process is conducted online through the MassHealth enrollment system. 

6. Required Documentation 

To qualify for PAS, applicants must provide: 

• Proof of Massachusetts residency 

• Documentation of disability status 

• Medical documentation of need for assistance with ADLs 

• Financial information for Medicaid eligibility determination 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The timeline for approval is not specified in the available information. Applicants should contact MassHealth for details on the approval process timeline. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no formal pre-application process. However, individuals are encouraged to assess their needs and gather necessary medical documentation before applying. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

No specific pre-application training is required for PAS recipients. However, once approved, participants receive training on how to manage their PCA services. 

10. Additional Notes 

• As of March 1, 2025, the income limit for a single applicant is $1,734.54 per month, and for married couples, it's $2,344.13 per month 

• The asset limit is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples 

• The program allows certain relatives, except spouses, to be hired as caregivers 

• PAS does not include medical services or procedures 

• The program aims to support aging in place and reduce reliance on institutional care.