Family caregiving means lending a hand to a loved one who needs extra help because they’re chronically ill, have a disability, or are elderly and need some support with daily tasks. While it can be really rewarding, serving as a family caregiver can be draining, too.
Thankfully, some states and programs provide caregiver compensation, but the exact amount varies widely. So, how much do family members get paid for caregiving? Family members who get paid for caregiving services may earn up to $20 per hour or even a bit more.
Taking care of a family member means you wear a lot of hats just to make sure your loved one is okay. You might remind them to take their medications, schedule doctor visits, and help them move around. If they’re older or not feeling well, you could also help with bathing, getting dressed, and cooking.
But it’s not just physical tasks — you’re there to listen to their worries, cheer them up, and keep them company. And you’re probably taking care of household tasks, such as laundry, groceries, and cleaning. While many family members care for loved ones without formal compensation, you can get paid to care for your family.
Family caregivers often fill gaps in the healthcare system that professional services might not. They help manage long-term health issues, make sure their loved ones take medications correctly, and support all from the comfort of their home. This ensures that loved ones receiving care at home are healthier. Also, it takes some pressure off hospitals and care homes. If not for the tireless efforts of family caregivers, the healthcare system would probably struggle to keep up.
Looking after someone you love can be great, but it can be really hard work sometimes and might even wear you down. Aside from being physically tiring, it can be emotionally draining, too. Watching a loved one struggle with illness or aging can take a toll on your mental health. Without the right support, such as counseling or respite care, this can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression.
Caregiving can be a strain on your finances, too. According to AARP, many people who provide unpaid care to their family members spend roughly 26% of their income on care-related expenses.
But that’s not all. If you have to cut back on work hours or leave your job to care for a loved one, that usually means you’ve lost your income and any other benefits that come with your job.
Like many other family caregivers, you may provide unpaid care out of love. The good news is that some programs actually pay you to care for your loved ones who need extra support. That said, the amount you can earn varies greatly depending on a few factors. Here’s a quick rundown:
Many states have Medicaid programs that let family members get paid for caregiving through Medicaid waivers or Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). The details, payment rates, and eligibility rules can be different depending on where you live because each state has its own laws.
In Pennsylvania, the Medicaid Waiver Program allows family members to be paid caregivers through becoming a Home Health Aide for their loved ones. In Colorado, the Family CNA program lets those who qualify get help with daily tasks from a family member who gets paid for their caregiving.
If you’re looking to get paid for caring for your loved one, it’s important to check your state’s Medicaid program to see if it offers caregiver compensation and find out what you need to do to qualify.
Taking care of a loved one can come with extra expenses, but with smart planning, you can keep your finances in check while providing great care. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
As you explore payment options for caregiving, you might encounter some challenges. Programs often have specific eligibility rules you need to meet, and you’ll likely need to show proof of the care you provide with documents.
Despite these hurdles, learning about different programs and their specific details can help you find the right support for your caregiving needs.
While many caregivers provide unpaid care, there’s a growing recognition of their important role in supporting loved ones and the healthcare system. Advocacy efforts are working toward better support and improved compensation for family caregivers, along with increased funding for caregiver programs.
Abby Care is committed to advocating for better recognition and support for family caregivers. If you want to learn more about available resources, Abby Care is here to support you every step of the way.
https://www.care.com/c/average-in-home-caregiver-salary-by-state/
https://www.springhills.com/resources/how-much-do-elderly-caregivers-get-paid
https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dhs/resources/medicaid/chc.html
https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/info-2024/credit-caring-act.html
https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/senior-caregiver-tax-tips
