There have been important updates for the Quality Incentive Program (QIP). Read below about upcoming deadlines for service providers, and how they can check their eligibility for quality incentive rate components for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 that begins on July 1, 2026.
The QIP helps improve the quality of services and supports provided to you and your family. The QIP’s surveys and data collected help us measure and strengthen the quality of services that providers deliver. Participation in the QIP is optional but enables service providers to earn the 10 percent quality incentive component of their rate model(s).
QIP Eligibility Requirements
Any providers who want to qualify for the incentive rates must complete the following steps by February 27, 2026:
- Electronic Visit Verification (EVV)
- Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Settings Final Rule
- Independent Audits or Reviews
Providers who do not meet these eligibility requirements by the deadline will be ineligible for the quality incentive rate effective July 1, 2026.
QIP Surveys Are Due February 27, 2026
Service providers must submit their QIP surveys by February 27, 2026.
Any participating provider who delivered services under QIP-eligible service codes during FY 2024-25 is required to follow this step. Only providers who submit their surveys on time will qualify to earn the quality incentive rate starting July 1, 2026.
- New or Special Case Vendors Exception: Only providers with new vendor numbers or who were active during FY 2025-26 but did not provide services qualifying for other QIP measures do not have to meet this requirement. These providers will receive instructions on next steps, sent to their email address that is registered in the Provider Directory.
Providers can monitor their QIP eligibility status and survey completion progress under the “Provider Survey Status” tab on the QIP webpage. These status trackers are updated weekly.
Upcoming Training Sessions & Webinars
Join upcoming training opportunities or review past sessions for more information:
- QIP Employment, Prevention and Wellness, and Provider Capacity: Recordings of the trainings held on January 8th, 9th, and 13th —including survey walk-throughs and Q&A sessions—are available on the right side of the QIP webpage.
2026 QIP Workgroup Meetings
All QIP workgroup meetings are open to the public.
Mark your calendars for the following 2026 Workgroup meeting dates:
- March 16
- June 15
- September 14
- December 14
All meetings will be held from 2 – 4 pm via Zoom. Keep an eye on the Department’s Stakeholder Events webpage for links to attend each meeting.
QIP Focus Groups
Join one of our focus groups and help shape the Quality Incentive Program!
Focus groups play an important part in discussing and developing ideas for definitions, approaches, and strategies related to the QIP.
While the number of participants is limited, we strive to have representation from individuals, advocates, service providers, and regional centers. You can find out more details about these groups on the Department’s website. If you are interested in taking part in these discussions, please complete this short survey. You will be added to the 2026 QIP focus group interest list.