How State Programs Help Family Caregivers Get Paid

If you’re taking care of a loved one at home, yes—you can get paid by the state in some cases. It depends on where you live, the needs of your family member, and your relationship to them.

Many states offer programs that pay family caregivers. But it’s not automatic—you have to apply, qualify, and follow their rules. Let me walk you through how it usually works.

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Start with Medicaid Programs

Most people who get paid for caregiving go through Medicaid, the health program for low-income individuals.

Medicaid has something called “Home and Community-Based Services” (HCBS). This lets people stay in their own homes instead of going to a nursing facility. And the big thing is—you can get paid as a caregiver under this program.

Each state runs Medicaid its own way. Some states allow family members to be paid caregivers, and some don’t. Even among those that do, there are rules. For example, a few states won’t pay a spouse or a parent of a minor child.

What to Do First

First, check if your family member qualifies for Medicaid. If they already get Medicaid, great. If not, help them apply through your state’s Medicaid office or website.

Next, look up whether your state offers Consumer-Directed Services (CDS) or Self-Directed Medicaid programs. These allow the person needing care to choose their own caregiver—including a family member.

Just search for “[Your State] Medicaid Self-Directed Care program” or call your state’s Medicaid office.

Veterans Can Get Caregiver Pay Too

If the person you’re caring for is a veteran, you might qualify under the VA’s caregiver support programs.

The VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) provides a monthly stipend, training, and even mental health support for caregivers.

To qualify, the veteran usually needs to have a serious service-connected injury and need help with daily tasks. There’s a detailed application, and the process can take time—but it’s worth looking into.

Go to www.caregiver.va.gov to start. There’s a hotline too: 1-855-260-3274.

State-Specific Programs

Some states have non-Medicaid caregiver support programs. These are often funded by the state’s Department of Aging or Health and Human Services.

For example:

California has In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS).
New York offers Consumer-Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP).
Pennsylvania has the Caregiver Support Program.

These programs usually help older adults or people with disabilities stay at home. Some pay caregivers directly. Others offer stipends, reimbursements, or respite services (like paying for temporary help so you can take a break).

Search your state’s aging services website or call their senior helpline. Use the phrase “family caregiver support program” when asking.

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)

Every state has something called an Area Agency on Aging. These local offices connect people with senior services—and yes, they often help caregivers too.

While they don’t directly pay you, they guide you to programs that might. They also help with training, support groups, and legal help.

Find your local AAA by going to https://eldercare.acl.gov and entering your ZIP code. Then call and ask:

“Do you know of any state programs that pay family caregivers?”

It’s a simple way to get started.

Become a Paid Caregiver Through an Agency

In some cases, you can work through a home care agency and get paid to care for your loved one.

Here’s how this usually works:

Your family member is approved for home care services (like through Medicaid).
They choose a home care agency to manage the services.
That agency hires you as a worker, trains you, and pays you hourly.

Not all states or agencies allow this. But if your state supports it, it’s a clean and official way to get paid.

Ask local home care agencies if they offer “Consumer-Directed” or “Family-Directed” programs.

What Kind of Pay Can You Expect?

Let’s be real. You won’t get rich doing this. But the money can help cover some of your time and expenses.

Here’s a general idea:

Most Medicaid caregiver pay ranges from $10 to $20 an hour, depending on the state.
Some states cap the number of hours per week you can get paid.
Veterans programs often offer monthly stipends, which can range from a few hundred to over $2,000 depending on need.

It’s not about making a living—it’s about getting some financial relief for something you’re already doing out of love.

Keep Good Records

If you do get approved, make sure to:

Track your hours if needed.
Submit paperwork on time.
Follow any training or check-in requirements.

Some programs require background checks, caregiver training, or regular evaluations. It sounds like a lot, but once you’re set up, it usually runs smoothly.

What If You Don’t Qualify?

Not everyone will qualify to get paid. But don’t give up. Here are a few options to explore:

Tax Deductions and Credits

You might be able to claim your loved one as a dependent on your taxes if you support them financially. That can lower your tax bill.

Also look into the Dependent Care Tax Credit, especially if you work and pay for help.

Talk to a tax professional to see what you qualify for. Every bit helps.

Crowdfunding or Family Contributions

Some families set up pooled caregiving funds, where siblings chip in to support the person doing the hands-on care.

Others turn to GoFundMe to raise money from friends and community, especially in tough situations.

It’s not government help, but it’s still valid support.

Should You Get Paid to Care for Family?

This is a personal decision. For many, caregiving is done out of love and duty. But it’s okay to need help yourself. Getting paid doesn’t make you greedy—it means your time and effort are being recognized.

If it helps you keep your loved one at home longer, it’s worth looking into.

Quick Summary

Here’s a simple checklist to help you figure it out:

Step	What to Do
1	See if your loved one qualifies for Medicaid.
2	Look into your state’s Medicaid caregiver programs.
3	Check for state-funded caregiver support programs.
4	Contact your Area Agency on Aging.
5	Explore VA caregiver programs if they’re a veteran.
6	Consider working through a home care agency.
7	Track your hours and follow the rules once approved.

It might take some effort to apply and get things in place, but if it eases your financial stress, it’s worth trying.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of a family member is hard work—physically, mentally, and emotionally. If your state has a way to pay you for it, don’t feel guilty about applying. You’re already giving your time, energy, and love. This is just one more piece of support that can make life a bit easier.