Can You Receive Pay as a Caregiver for a Family Member?
Posted on March 27, 2022 by shieldsandboris
Family members are responsible for a tremendous amount of the long-term elder care given in the United States. Many family members are forced to significantly reduce their work hours, or sometimes quit a job entire to care for mom or dad.
And that's not all. According to AARP.org, family caregivers usually spend almost $7000 of their own money on expenses.
This costly situation leaves many family members wondering if there is any way they can earn money for caring for a loved one.
To have the best chances to be paid for becoming a caregiver, the patient family member is on Medicaid or is eligible for Medicaid.
In all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia, Medicaid offers a waiver self-directed long-term services and supports (LTSS). The program gives patients the latitude to manage their own care--meaning that they can hire and fire their own caregivers. However, there are a few pertinent details to keep in mind:
• Medicaid eligibility, as well as benefits and coverage, differ from state to state. Rules regarding family caregivers are also different depending on the state. Some programs will pay for private caregivers but may exclude spouses and legal guardians. Other programs will pay care providers only if they do not live in the same household.
• Names will vary from program to program. In one state a program or service may be called one thing, but in another, it may be called something completely different. That's why it's important to consult with a local attorney.
Special Rules for Veterans
Veteran Directed Home & Community Based Care is available in 37 states as well as Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. This program is available for veterans of all ages enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration standard medical benefits packages. This care program is for those who need a high level of care that only a nursing facility can provide.
However, those veterans enrolled in the program who want to opt for home care have a budget of on average $2,500 to spend on services they want or need. A veteran may choose any family member that is physically and mentally capable of doing the job.
Getting Paid by a Family Member
If you are taking care of a family member who is mentally competent and has enough money or assets to pay a caregiver, the family member can choose to pay you directly or another family member for the same services they are doing. They must be doing the same services a professional would offer and provide.
You should keep in mind that this is a job and maintain an employer-employee approach. It is crucial that you discuss your wage, rules, expectations, etc. Also, keep records of all payments and hours. Even though it is family, there may be some misunderstandings at some point in the future. In the case of a dispute, careful record keeping could be a lifesaver.
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