The most frequent questions we receive are listed below. If you have any other questions about our program, support services, or employment options please click HERE to reach us.

How long will it take once I apply before I get a placement in my home?
Answer: It varies and depends on many factors. These factors, at a minimum, are the consumer and family’s preferences, matching results, compatibility, and family decision-making issues. We do take pride in taking the time necessary to ensure longevity and stability.

What trainings or certificates do I need and where do I get them?
Answer: First Aid/CPR – True North Supports accepts certification from any American Red Cross certified program.

*Not Required*
Medication Certification (QMAP)

Basic Orientation – You will go through orientation with a TNS representative.

Home Inspection – Every potential provider is required to have a home inspection done by one of our representatives prior to placement.

How many individuals can I serve in my home?
Answer: Two can live in the home full time. If space is available you can do Respite for a third person.

How much will I get paid?
Answer: The rates are based on what we receive from the state of Utah, and each individual is different, so rates will vary. Each individual receives a standardized assessment that determines their level of need and the reimbursement rates are based on that. Feel free to contact us for further information.

Can I apply with other agencies?
Answer. Yes

Can I have a consumer from a different agency in my home?
Answer. Yes. We will need to know about them prior to placement. If one of our consumers lives in your home and you get a second placement from a different agency, we will need to know that before they move in.

What can I do to make a placement happen more quickly?
Answer. Provide photos and descriptions of your home and family in an email to [email protected] so we may create a marketing flyer for you. Also, keep your training certifications current, and hold on to them until you are matched with a client. Periodically check in with us via email. Let us know if you move or change your phone number. Wheel Chair accessible homes; homes located in Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, and Utah counties; and those who are willing and able to accept individuals with behavioral challenges are always in demand.

Do I need to live in Utah?
Answer. Yes, currently TNS operates solely in the State of Utah.

Must I own a computer?
Answer. Yes, our providers need to have their own computer and internet access. Most of your training is completed using our online training program. Also, once you are matched with a client, you will be required to track your client’s care using our fillable, electronic paperwork. Training on these programs will be provided to you.

What is Respite?
Answer. Respite is short-term relief offered to Host Home Providers. It can be for a few hours or days and can be used for vacations, illness, meetings, trainings etc.

Can I provide Respite while on the waiting list for a placement?
Answer. Yes if your home is ready and your training certifications are current.

How much will I get paid for providing Respite?
Answer. Respite rates are negotiated between the Current Host Home Provider and the Respite Provider.

I have one spare Bedroom. Can I have two consumers and have them share a bedroom?
Answer. No. Each consumer must have his or her own bedroom. Consumers can share a bathroom.

Can a consumer’s bedroom be in the basement?
Answer. Yes if the consumer is able to navigate stairs and the basement is finished and furnished. For adolescent providers a basement bedroom must have egress windows to meet consumer safety guidelines.

Do I need to furnish the Bedroom for a potential placement?
Answer. Most consumers usually have their own bedroom furnishings. A spare bed however will make it possible for you to provide Respite while you are waiting for a permanent placement.

Who in my home needs to have a Background Check?
Answer. Any one over the age of 18 who lives in the home.

Who does the Background Check?
Answer. TNS will request the background check release form, DHS and BCI will review and conduct your screening.

Who notarizes my application?
Answer. This is not a required step in the BCI application process for Host Home Providers.

What is Professional Liability Insurance and do I have to carry it?
Answer. No. Professional Liability Insurance provides coverage should something happen to your consumer. This is not a requirement for independent Host Home Providers in Utah, but it is an extra level of protection you may want to consider should something drastic happen to a client at your home. If you desire to purchase Professional Liability Insurance TNS can provide you with resources on where to find such coverage. Keep in mind: coverage will not begin until the policy is bound. *Payment for this insurance is the responsibility of the Host Home Provider and considered a cost of doing business as an independent contractor.

Who pays for the consumer’s clothes, medications, entertainment, and groceries?
Answer. Each client receives a small amount of money each month to meet his or her personal needs. There is potential of food stamps and social security, which will help with grocery purchases and rent. There are limits as to what can be purchased with these funds. Medicare/Medicaid will pay for all prescription medications. Over the counter medications and groceries must be purchased by the Host Home Provider above what the client can afford. These are considered a cost of doing business as an independent contractor and Host Home Provider. A list of items that can be purchased with a consumer’s personal needs funds will be provided at the time of placement.

Can I have children in the home?
Answer. Yes, make sure you list their ages on your application.

Can I have pets in the home?
Answer. Yes, make sure we know what kind and how many you have. And, of course, it is possible that this can affect the possible options for placements into your home.

Can I contact someone at TNS if I have an emergency after hours?
Answer. Yes. TNS has 24-hour support for emergency situations. You will be provided with the emergency contact information at the time of placement.

What is “Day Program”?
Answer. TNS offers Day Program Services, as do many other agencies. Day Program Services are funded by the state and are typically based on the needs of the client and therefore, client needs should be taken into consideration when choosing a Day Program. Since not all clients have a Day Program to attend when they are initially placed in your home, the client’s support team will assist you with this decision. Choosing an appropriate Day Program can take up to 30 days.

Where do you get your referrals?
Answer. We receive referrals from DSPD (Department of Services for People with Disabilities), it’s affiliates and support coordinators.

Do I have to wait for you to get a referral before I get a client placed in my home?
Answer. Yes, there is usually some sort of waiting period. However, there are times when an existing consumer is in need of a new host home. It is possible that you may get a placement from our existing client pool.

Can I start out providing a Host Home and then grow into a Group Home?
Answer. Yes, but there are some stipulations. Host Home services are treated differently than Group Home services. If you own a home that you would like to rent/lease to TNS for the purpose of Group Home supports, please call TNS and speak to an admin team member. (385) 434-3408