Connecticut

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.

  When can I enroll with GT Independence?
  You can enroll between January 1, 2024, and March 23, 2024. Enrollment must be complete by March 23.

  When will the change to GT Independence happen?
  GT Independence will take over FI services on March 24, 2024.

• About enrollment with GT Independence

  How do I enroll with GT Independence?
  GT Independence has three ways to get you enrolled. You can self-enroll, enroll virtually, or enroll in person. To self-enroll, simply click the custom link sent to you via email from gtenroll@gtindependence.com. GT Independence will provide support to help walk you through the enrollment process. Virtual or face-to-face meeting appointments will be set up for people needing more support.

  When can I enroll with GT Independence?
  You can enroll between January 1, 2024, and March 23, 2024. Enrollment must be complete by March 23.

  How long will it take to enroll with GT Independence?
  GT Independence will provide steps to help you to enroll. Please plan to spend 30-60 minutes to get set up.

  How will I enroll with GT Independence?
  GT Independence has three ways to get you enrolled with GT Independence.

  The first option is self-service enrollment. You will receive a welcome email with a link to your personal GT Enroll packet. Embedded videos and descriptive narrative guide you through pre-populated forms to review and update, and customer support, webinars, and town halls are available for additional direction. You can complete the enrollment process at your own pace. You can start, save and come back later to complete your enrollment paperwork.

  The second option will be to take part in a virtual enrollment meeting, led by a GT Enrollment Specialist over Microsoft Teams. Virtual enrollment meetings will be available in February and March.

  Finally, face-to-face meetings will be arranged for people in March who have not yet completed enrollment and need additional support.

  Who needs to complete enrollment documents?
  The Participant receiving services, their guardian or representative (if applicable), and your employees and/or vendor providers will need to enroll.

  When should I complete my enrollment?
  Please enroll as soon as you can. If you enroll early, there is more time to make sure all forms are complete and correct. It will also help ensure that payments go to your employees on time and in full.

  What is the deadline to enroll?
  Your enrollment must be complete by March 23, 2024.

  How can I prepare for the enrollment?
  Participnts will need to gather required documents for enrollment including:

  • Date of birth, Social Security number, and if applicable, POA or guardianship documents

  Your employees will need to have:

  • Identification Documents (e.g. Driver’s License and Social Security Card)
  • Direct Deposit Information (e.g. bank routing and account number)

  If you do not have your information or need to pause the enrollment, you can go back to the link and begin where you left off.

  Your employee does not need to be present for you to complete self-service enrollment. If you take part in a virtual or in-person enrollment, your employee should attend.

  What if I don’t enroll?
  On March 24, 2024, all Department of Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Department of Social Services (DSS) and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) consumers will transition to GT Independence. It is important that all participants and employees work with GT Independence to complete all required enrollment forms by March 23 to avoid any interruption in employee pay.

  How will GT Independence contact me?
  GT Independence is contacting employers, providers, and agency partners now. GT Independence will be helping people to enroll and complete forms and paperwork. Please look for a letter in the mail and emails from customerservice@gtindependence.com or gtenroll@gtindependence.com. Be sure to check your spam and junk folders.

• About tools and technologies for services…

  What does GT Independence use as an EVV system?
  GT Independence has their own EVV system. The free GT app is for all Connecticut providers. It is very user friendly, and it works with many devices and operating systems, including your phone or tablet. You can log your care hours, get approval from your employer, and turn in timesheets for payment. Find it in the Apple App Store or Google Play by searching for “GT Independence.” More information about The GT App.

  Will the GT app work on my phone or tablet?
  Yes, the GT app works with many devices and operating systems. It will work from your phone or tablet, and it works on iPhone and Android. More information about The GT App.

  Do I have to own a smartphone or tablet to participate in self-direction?
  Your worker will need a smartphone or tablet to enter and approve time for payment. If you do not own a device, GT Independence will work with you and your Case Manager or Care Manager to review devices you may be eligible to receive.

  How can I learn to use the GT app?
  The GT app has a built-in tutorial that goes through all of the steps to enter time and have it reviewed and approved by your employer. Additionally, the GT Portal and website has resources with step-by-step instructions and a video. For more help, call our support specialists at 1-877-659-4500. Or, email them at customerservice@gtindependence.com. GT Independence’s support team uses the app themselves and are ready to help you.

  What should I do if I have a payroll issue from time worked 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) waiver program, you can also call the EVV Support Center at 1-833-452-0946. The call center will answer questions about Sandata’s EVV system through March 23, 2024.

  For questions and help with issues for services provided on or after March 24, 2024, please call GT Independence at 1-877-659-4500.

  Will I still be able to access Sandata to enter back hours or make corrections to timesheets after March 23, 2024?
  For services provided on or before March 23, 2024, contact your current FI (Sunset Shores or Allied). They will handle time entry and payroll questions and issues. If you self-direct services through a Department of Social Services (DSS) waiver program, you can also call the EVV Support Center at 1-833-452-0946. The call center can help you will time entry issues 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 important payroll details…

  When was the first pay date with GT Independence?
  April 5, 2024 was 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 was the final pay period from the previous FI (Allied or Sunset Shores)?
  The state’s previous FIs (Allied and Sunset Shores) handled payment for services provided on or before March 23, 2024. They issued final paychecks or direct deposits on March 29, 2024. GT Independence is handling payment for services provided on or after March 24, 2024. The first payday with GT Independence is April 5. If you have questions, call GT Independence at 1-877-659-4500.

  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 833-452-0946, their EVV call center. The call center will answer questions about Sandata’s EVV system through March 23, 2024.

• 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.

  How can I submit/approve PTO?
  Submit PTO through the GT app in the same way you enter services payment. Then, the employer will choose to approve or deny the time. Approved time will be paid to the employee and deducted from the employee’s accrued PTO balance.

  How can I see my PTO balance?
  Your PTO balance is in GT Portal. In GT Portal, you can see your total accrued PTO and how much time you have used in the current State fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).

• About bundled services and cost sharing…

  Will GT Independence handle services bundled with PCA services, such as Meals on Wheels or PERS (Personal Emergency Response System)?
  Yes. Participants who start self-direction and enroll with GT Independence in December can access their bundled services right away. All other participants will have bundled services through GT Independence when it becomes the fiscal intermediary on March 24, 2024.

  Will GT Independence provide agencies with referrals for participants who need services like Meals on Wheels or PERS?
  Yes. GT Independence will make referrals to agencies for bundled services that participants may need.

  Will participants in the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) have a way to see their cost share or patient liability?
  Yes, cost share services will be available through GT Independence starting March 24, 2024. CHCPE participants will have a GT Portal account. They will be able to review invoices (past and current) and make payments. Before March 24, the current fiscal intermediary will handle cost share and patient liability.

  Will agencies have a way to see cost share or patient liability amounts?
  Yes, cost share services will be available through GT Independence starting March 24, 2024. Access agencies have reporting, so they can check on open cost share or patient liability amounts. This helps ensure that participants know their obligations during check-ins with case management services. Before March 24, the current fiscal intermediary will handle cost share and patient liability.

• About timesheets and budgets…

  What is the deadline to submit timesheets for payment to GT Independence?
  GT Independence has a weekly payroll period. It runs from Sunday through Saturday. Employees should submit their timesheets to their employers for approval by 5:00 pm every Monday. The timesheet should include any work done for that pay period.

  How can I access/view my budgets and timesheets?
  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, information, and more will be within reach. You can access GT Portal from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

  How do I fix timesheet issues?Please visit our website’s troubleshooting page to find solutions. If you need more help, please call us at 1-877-659-4500.

  Do I still need to use Sandata? If you are an employee of a participant, no. For services provided on or after March 24, 2024, please use the GT app to log and submit time.

  If you are a vendor, or an employee of a vendor providing services that require EVV, then you will continue to use Sandata after the transition to GT Independence. GT Independence will work with Sandata to issue your payments.

• 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.

  
  When can I enroll with GT Independence?
  You can enroll between January 1, 2024, and March 23, 2024. Enrollment must be complete by March 23.

  When will the change to GT Independence happen?
  GT Independence will take over FI services on March 24, 2024.

  How do I enroll with GT Independence?
  GT Independence has three ways to get you enrolled. You can self-enroll, enroll virtually, or enroll in person. To self-enroll, simply click the custom link sent to you via email from gtenroll@gtindependence.com. GT Independence will provide support to help walk you through the enrollment process. Virtual or face-to-face meeting appointments will be set up for people needing more support.

  When can I enroll with GT Independence?
  You can enroll between January 1, 2024, and March 23, 2024. Enrollment must be complete by March 23.

  How long will it take to enroll with GT Independence?
  GT Independence will provide steps to help you to enroll. Please plan to spend 30-60 minutes to get set up.

  How will I enroll with GT Independence?
  GT Independence has three ways to get you enrolled with GT Independence.

  The first option is self-service enrollment. You will receive a welcome email with a link to your personal GT Enroll packet. Embedded videos and descriptive narrative guide you through pre-populated forms to review and update, and customer support, webinars, and town halls are available for additional direction. You can complete the enrollment process at your own pace. You can start, save and come back later to complete your enrollment paperwork.

  The second option will be to take part in a virtual enrollment meeting, led by a GT Enrollment Specialist over Microsoft Teams. Virtual enrollment meetings will be available in February and March.

  Finally, face-to-face meetings will be arranged for people in March who have not yet completed enrollment and need additional support.

  Who needs to complete enrollment documents?
  The Participant receiving services, their guardian or representative (if applicable), and your employees and/or vendor providers will need to enroll.

  When should I complete my enrollment?
  Please enroll as soon as you can. If you enroll early, there is more time to make sure all forms are complete and correct. It will also help ensure that payments go to your employees on time and in full.

  What is the deadline to enroll?
  Your enrollment must be complete by March 23, 2024.

  How can I prepare for the enrollment?
  Participnts will need to gather required documents for enrollment including:

  • Date of birth, Social Security number, and if applicable, POA or guardianship documents

  Your employees will need to have:

  • Identification Documents (e.g. Driver’s License and Social Security Card)
  • Direct Deposit Information (e.g. bank routing and account number)

  If you do not have your information or need to pause the enrollment, you can go back to the link and begin where you left off.

  Your employee does not need to be present for you to complete self-service enrollment. If you take part in a virtual or in-person enrollment, your employee should attend.

  What if I don’t enroll?
  On March 24, 2024, all Department of Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Department of Social Services (DSS) and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) consumers will transition to GT Independence. It is important that all participants and employees work with GT Independence to complete all required enrollment forms by March 23 to avoid any interruption in employee pay.

  How will GT Independence contact me?
  GT Independence is contacting employers, providers, and agency partners now. GT Independence will be helping people to enroll and complete forms and paperwork. Please look for a letter in the mail and emails from customerservice@gtindependence.com or gtenroll@gtindependence.com. Be sure to check your spam and junk folders.

  What does GT Independence use as an EVV system?
  GT Independence has their own EVV system. The free GT app is for all Connecticut providers. It is very user friendly, and it works with many devices and operating systems, including your phone or tablet. You can log your care hours, get approval from your employer, and turn in timesheets for payment. Find it in the Apple App Store or Google Play by searching for “GT Independence.” More on The GT App

  Will the GT app work on my phone or tablet?
  Yes, the GT app works with many devices and operating systems. It will work from your phone or tablet, and it works on iPhone and Android. More on The GT App

  Do I have to own a smartphone or tablet to participate in self-direction?
  Your worker will need a smartphone or tablet to enter and approve time for payment. If you do not own a device, GT Independence will work with you and your Case Manager or Care Manager to review devices you may be eligible to receive.

  How can I learn to use the GT app?
  The GT app has a built-in tutorial that goes through all of the steps to enter time and have it reviewed and approved by your employer. Additionally, the GT Portal and website has resources with step-by-step instructions and a video. For more help, call our support specialists at 1-877-659-4500. Or, email them at customerservice@gtindependence.com. GT Independence’s support team uses the app themselves and are ready to help you.

  What should I do if I have a payroll issue from time worked 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) waiver program, you can also call the EVV Support Center at 1-833-452-0946. The call center will answer questions about Sandata’s EVV system through March 23, 2024.

  For questions and help with issues for services provided on or after March 24, 2024, please call GT Independence at 1-877-659-4500.

  Will I still be able to access Sandata to enter back hours or make corrections to timesheets after March 23, 2024?
  For services provided on or before March 23, 2024, contact your current FI (Sunset Shores or Allied). They will handle time entry and payroll questions and issues. If you self-direct services through a Department of Social Services (DSS) waiver program, you can also call the EVV Support Center at 1-833-452-0946. The call center can help you will time entry issues 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.

  When was the first pay date with GT Independence?
  April 5, 2024 was 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 was the final pay period from the previous FI (Allied or Sunset Shores)?
  The state’s previous FIs (Allied and Sunset Shores) handled payment for services provided on or before March 23, 2024. They issued final paychecks or direct deposits on March 29, 2024. GT Independence is handling payment for services provided on or after March 24, 2024. The first payday with GT Independence is April 5. If you have questions, call GT Independence at 1-877-659-4500.

  
  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 833-452-0946, their EVV call center. The call center will answer questions about Sandata’s EVV system through March 23, 2024.

  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.

  How can I submit/approve PTO?
  Submit PTO through the GT app in the same way you enter services payment. Then, the employer will choose to approve or deny the time. Approved time will be paid to the employee and deducted from the employee’s accrued PTO balance.

  How can I see my PTO balance?
  Your PTO balance is in GT Portal. In GT Portal, you can see your total accrued PTO and how much time you have used in the current State fiscal year (July 1 – June 30).

  Will GT Independence handle services bundled with PCA services, such as Meals on Wheels or PERS (Personal Emergency Response System)?
  Yes. Participants who start self-direction and enroll with GT Independence in December can access their bundled services right away. All other participants will have bundled services through GT Independence when it becomes the fiscal intermediary on March 24, 2024.

  Will GT Independence provide agencies with referrals for participants who need services like Meals on Wheels or PERS?
  Yes. GT Independence will make referrals to agencies for bundled services that participants may need.

  Will participants in the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) have a way to see their cost share or patient liability?
  Yes, cost share services will be available through GT Independence starting March 24, 2024. CHCPE participants will have a GT Portal account. They will be able to review invoices (past and current) and make payments. Before March 24, the current fiscal intermediary will handle cost share and patient liability.

  
  Will agencies have a way to see cost share or patient liability amounts?
  Yes, cost share services will be available through GT Independence starting March 24, 2024. Access agencies have reporting, so they can check on open cost share or patient liability amounts. This helps ensure that participants know their obligations during check-ins with case management services. Before March 24, the current fiscal intermediary will handle cost share and patient liability.

  What is the deadline to submit timesheets for payment to GT Independence?
  GT Independence has a weekly payroll period. It runs from Sunday through Saturday. Employees should submit their timesheets to their employers for approval by 5:00 pm every Monday. The timesheet should include any work done for that pay period.

  How can I access/view my budgets and timesheets?
  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, information, and more will be within reach. You can access GT Portal from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

  
  How do I fix timesheet issues?Please visit our website’s troubleshooting page to find solutions. If you need more help, please call us at 1-877-659-4500.

  Do I still need to use Sandata? If you are an employee of a participant, no. For services provided on or after March 24, 2024, please use the GT app to log and submit time.

  If you are a vendor, or an employee of a vendor providing services that require EVV, then you will continue to use Sandata after the transition to GT Independence. GT Independence will work with Sandata to issue your payments

• How can I find someone who can provide the support needed in my home or community?

  In partnership with Connecticut’s Department of Developmental Services, RewardingWork.org/CT is a platform that can help you or a family member find someone who can provide the support needed in your home or community. Rewarding Work offers a comprehensive, up-to-date list of people who live near you, have experience, and who are available to work when you need them. In addition to an easy-to-use job board.

  If you are eligible for or receive supports from DDS, RewardingWork offers a FREE subscription service.

  Please contact your DDS case manager or email info@rewardingwork.org to request the access code.

  To learn more, visit: https://portal.ct.gov/dds/searchable-archive/selfadvocacyselfdetermination/self-determination/self-hire-staff-rewarding-work