(1) Supports brokerage services assist the person self-directing service with employer authority in arranging, directing, and managing self-directed services as described in the person's plan of care. The supports broker acts as an agent of the person or legal representative and is available to assist in identifying immediate and long-term needs, developing options to meet those needs, and accessing identified supports and services.

(2) As determined by the scope and nature of the opportunities afforded to the person in waiver services, supports brokers may provide information regarding the following:

(a) person-centered planning and how it is applied;

(b) the range and scope of the choices and options the person has;

(c) the process for changing the plan of care and the individual budget;

(d) the grievance process;

(e) risks and responsibilities of self-direction;

(f) freedom of choice of providers;

(g) reassessment and review of schedules; and

(h) other information pertinent to managing self-directed services.

(3) The supports broker may assist the person with:

(a) defining goals, needs, and preferences;

(b) training the person on the material contained in the self-directed employer handbook;

(c) day-to-day management of the budget for self-directed services;

(d) identifying and accessing services, support, and resources;

(e) practical skills training regarding hiring, managing, and terminating employees;

(f) problem solving and conflict resolution;

(g) development of risk management agreements;

(h) development of an emergency backup plan;

(i) exercising independent advocacy;

(j) completing required forms; and

(k) development and maintenance of service documentation.

(4) Duplicative services are not allowed concurrent with supports brokerage. In instances where activities of the supports broker duplicate the provisions of case management, the plan of care must clearly delineate the responsibilities for performance activities.

(5) The annual cap for supports brokerage is the lesser of $6,000 or 20% of the value of the individual cost plan (ICP). These values may be exceeded for a limited time period in extraordinary circumstances with prior approval of the Developmental Disabilities Program (DDP) director.