Connecticut
Welcome to GT Independence
GT Independence is the new fiscal intermediary (FI) that supports self-direction in Connecticut. We look forward to serving participants and providers in Connecticut in early 2024. We are owned and run by people with disabilities and their family members. Our goal is to make self-direction easier for you.
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Review the Official Announcement Letters From the Departments
Important Dates
Enrollment with GT Independence is coming soon. Please bookmark this page and check it often. We’ll update it regularly with news and information.
- January 1: GT Independence opens enrollment
- March 23: Last day to enroll with GT Independence
Last day to enter time with Allied or Sunset Shores - March 24: First day with GT Independence
- March 29: Final payment through Allied or Sunset Shores
- April 5: First payday through GT Independence
Ready to get started?
How GT Independence Can Help You
GT Independence is a fiscal intermediary (FI). This means that you decide who provides your services and support for self-direction—and we handle the details.
For example, you hire a provider or employee you know and trust. We support you by taking care of all the necessary paperwork, like timesheets and paychecks. As your FI, we’ll help you manage your budget and get the training you need to succeed. We’ll also help with new hire paperwork and communicate with your case manager, care manager or vocational rehabilitation counselor. There’s a lot to learn as you self-direct your service. GT Independence is here to support you at every turn.
Together, Let’s Make Support Simpler
At GT Independence, we believe you should be able to decide who supports you and your loved ones. We can help you learn how to control your own support in Connecticut, so you have information to decide what is best for you.
Check out the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About the change to GT Independence…
Why is this change happening?
Recently, the State of Connecticut reviewed Fiscal Intermediaries (FI). The state wanted to make sure individuals have the best tools and technologies for their self-directed services. The state found that GT Independence is best equipped to meet the needs of state programs.
Why is this transition taking place?
The Departments of Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Department of Developmental Services (DDS), and Department of Social Services (DSS), completed a comprehensive and competitive evaluation of eligible companies to provide Fiscal Intermediary (FI) services for people who self-direct their care. GT Independence was determined to be the most qualified entity to provide FI services.
Who is GT Independence?
GT Independence is a person-centered Fiscal Intermediary (FI) with a mission to support people in living the life of their choosing regardless of age or ability. GT Independence is a family owned and disability led company. The Carmichaels founded GT Independence in 2004 after personally experiencing the rewards and challenges of assisting a family member with self-directed services. Today, GT Independence serves tens of thousands of Americans across the country.
GT Independence has a history of outstanding customer service and is an industry leader in self-direction. With a strong commitment to person-centered services, GT Independence focuses on partnering with stakeholders to deliver a supportive experience. With services from GT Independence, you can expect to see easy-to-use technology built for self-direction. Learn more about GT Independence by visiting their website at www.gtindependence.com.
What do I need to do now?
You do not need to take any action now. Keep managing your current budget and authorized services as usual. Continue with your current Fiscal Intermediary (FI), Allied Community Resources or Sunset Shores, until the transition date. You will get more information in December. At that time, GT Independence will send steps for enrolling.
When will the change to GT Independence happen?
GT Independence will take over FI services on March 24, 2024.
About important payroll details...
When is the first pay date with GT Independence?
April 5, 2024 is the first pay date with GT Independence for pay period 03/24/2024 – 03/30/2024.
How will GT Independence contact me?
GT Independence will contact you by letter and email in December. The email will come from customerservice@gtindependence.com or gtenroll@gtindependence.com. Be sure to check your spam and junk folders. You will receive instructions to enroll and to complete required forms and paperwork.
Where can I get more information?
Information is online at www.gtindependence.com/ct. GT Independence will also host webinars beginning in November. During the webinars, you can learn about resources and tools to help with the transition. You can also have your questions answered.
What is GT Independence’s payroll period?
GT Independence has a weekly payroll period of Sunday through Saturday.
When is the final pay period from the current FI (Allied or Sunset Shores)?
Your current FI will handle payroll for services provided on or before March 23, 2024. Your current FI will complete final paychecks/direct deposits on March 29, 2024.
For participants using Sunset Shores, your final pay period will be 6 days (Monday, 3/18/24 – Saturday, 3/24/24).
Will my Case Manager, Care Manager, or Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor change?
No. This transition will not change your Case Manager, Care Manager or Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.
Will my budget, care plan, or approved amount of services change?
No. This transition will not change your budget, care plan, or approved amount of services.
What should I do if I have a payroll issue before March 24, 2024?
For services provided on or before March 23, 2024, talk to your current FI (Sunset Shores or Allied). They will handle payroll questions and issues, including missing pay. If you self-direct services through a Department of Social Services (DSS) program, you can also call 2-1-1, their EVV call center. The call center will answer questions about Sandata’s EVV system through March 23, 2024.
About tools and technologies for services...
Will GT Independence be using a different EVV system?
Yes. GT Independence will use its own EVV system, called the GT app. This app is an easy time entry solution for all workers. It is very user friendly, and it works with many devices and operating systems.
On March 24, 2024, when Department of Social Services (DSS) and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) consumers transition to GT Independence, your employees will no longer be able to use the Sandata Mobile Connect (SMC) application or telephony to check in and check out for services provided to you. Your employees must use the new GT Independence app.
Who do I call if I have questions about GT Independence’s EVV, payroll or staffing?
GT Independence has one call center that can answer questions about any topic related to your self-directed services. After you’ve enrolled with GT Independence, you will be able to call them directly for questions about EVV, the App or Portal, budget, payroll, hiring new staff, and more. The toll-free number is 877-659-4500.
Will I need Sandata anymore?
Through March 23, 2024, please keep using Sandata for EVV visits. Also, use Sandata EVV system to fix visits and enter missing visits that took place on or before March 23, 2024. This is because Sunset Shores and Allied use the Sandata EVV system for payroll. You will not need Sandata once all payroll is complete for services provided through March 23, 2024.
How will I access/view my budgets and timesheets once the transition takes place?
Once you enroll with GT Independence, you will have access to GT Portal. GT Portal is a secure online tool that makes self-direction easy. Timesheets, budgets, tools, real-time reporting, information, and more will be within reach. You can access GT Portal from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
About using PTO after the transition...
Will I be able to use my PTO with GT Independence?
Yes. When you transition to GT Independence, you will be able to access and submit your paid time off (PTO).
Will the PTO I’ve accrued roll forward?
Yes, unused PTO will roll forward automatically at the end of each State fiscal year (July 1 – June 30). Hourly workers can accrue and carry over up to 40 hours. Per diem workers can accrue and carry over five days.
Where can I learn more about GT Independence?
You can learn more about GT Independence at www.gtindependence.com.
Attend an Information Session
We invite you to a webinar hosted by GT Independence. You’ll learn more about us and the tools and resources prepared for you. We’ll also share what to expect during enrollment and beyond.
Register for a day and time that works for you.
Have a different question? We want to hear from you.
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