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Electronic visit verification is a record framework. Knowing its basic elements helps you ask better questions, but it does not tell you which technology or exception applies in your program.
The six elements
CMS’s May 16, 2018 EVV frequently asked questions identify six visit elements: the type of service performed, the individual receiving the service, the date of service, the location of service delivery, the individual providing the service, and the time the service begins and ends.
- Service type
- Service recipient
- Service date
- Service location
- Service provider
- Start and end times
This list is a conceptual explanation, not an invitation to enter those details here. Visit Tech Guide accepts none of them. Actual visit information belongs in the system and channel authorized by the relevant program.
Technology is a separate question
The federal FAQ permits states to select approaches within the applicable framework. It does not establish one nationwide mobile app or a universal GPS requirement. Do not turn a general reference to location into a claim that every reader must use the same device, tracking method or network connection.
The correct operational question is which current method your state and program require for your role and service. A mobile app, telephone method and web portal can perform different jobs. Their names alone do not establish whether a particular entry meets EVV requirements.
A concrete current-state example
Virginia’s September 9, 2026 bulletin removes the live-in exemption effective October 1, 2026 for covered personal care/assistance, respite and companion services. For consumer-directed services, the bulletin requires the fiscal/employer agent’s mobile application or interactive voice response method; portal-only time entry is not EVV compliant. Read the separate Virginia article for the date boundary.
That is a Virginia example, not a rule for every state. A federal background document and a current state implementation notice can both be relevant while answering different questions. Use the more specific applicable source for operational guidance and official support for your individual circumstances.
Separate record completeness from a decision
A fictional caregiver can see a start and end time. That observation does not prove that all required visit elements are complete, that the method was accepted, that a timesheet is approved or that payment is due. Ask which status or official confirmation establishes the next step rather than treating visible time as a final decision.
Questions worth taking to support
Ask which approved method applies, which guide matches your role, and what to do when the required method is inaccessible or unavailable. Do not make up missing data, share another person’s credentials or assume a generic browser workaround is acceptable. The program must explain its authorized alternatives and correction process.
The resource router can point to public materials. It does not assess EVV compliance, authorize a method or inspect a visit.
Sources and limits
Official public sources checked October 18, 2026. Practical examples and reading methods are original editorial analysis, not official procedures. No private account or visit record was inspected.
- CMS electronic visit verification FAQ, May 16, 2018
Federal EVV context identifies six visit elements and leaves technology choices to states. It does not establish one national app or a state-specific exception.
- Virginia DMAS: live-in EVV requirement effective October 1, 2026
September 9, 2026 bulletin removes the live-in exemption effective October 1, 2026 for covered personal care/assistance, respite and companion services. For consumer-directed services, mobile app or IVR is required; portal-only entry is not EVV compliant.
- Consumer Direct online support by state
Official state-oriented support starting point; this publication does not operate or authenticate any account.