Thinking about a 245D agency? Start with the moratorium.
DHS has paused new 245D licenses. Here's what that means, how exceptions work, and what you can do now so you're ready.
How exceptions work
DHS accepts exception requests only from designated county, tribal or regional moratorium liaisons — not from providers directly. An exception is considered when:
- a specific person's service need can't be met by existing licensed capacity in the county, reservation or region, or
- there's a regional need for new capacity based on the needs of multiple people.
An approved exception does not guarantee a license — you still have to meet every licensing requirement.
What you can do now
- Understand the licensing standards and what a DHS licensor will expect to see
- Form the business and set up HR, payroll and banking properly
- Write policies and procedures that match 245D as amended
- Set up technology — domain, email, devices, record-keeping
- Explore programs outside 245D that fit your goals
- If a liaison supports an exception, be ready to meet every requirement quickly
Startup and readiness support
Readiness assessment
An honest look at where you are, what the moratorium means for your plan, and what to build first.
Business foundation
Entity, HR, payroll and banking set up the way a licensed home care agency needs them.
Policies & documents
A 245D policy manual and client and staff documents that reflect current law.
Systems from day one
Certify245D, CareCertify training and payroll set up before your first client — not bolted on later.
Manager training
Training for the people who'll be your designated manager and coordinators.
Ongoing support
Consulting after you open, from the same team, for the first licensing review and beyond.
We can't submit moratorium exception requests for you — only designated liaisons can — and we can't guarantee any licensing outcome. We help you understand the process and be ready.
Startup questions
Can I apply for a new 245D license in 2026?
DHS's temporary 245D licensing moratorium began January 1, 2026, with an anticipated end of December 31, 2027. It pauses new 245D license applications and requests to add services to existing licenses.
Are there exceptions to the 245D moratorium?
DHS accepts exception requests only from designated county, tribal or regional moratorium liaisons, based on a person-specific or regional service need. An approved exception does not guarantee a license.
Plan your agency with people who've run one
Tell us where you are. We'll tell you straight what's possible under the moratorium and what to do next.