There is no doubt that family caregivers play a vital role in the lives of their loved ones. They provide physical, emotional and often financial support to those who need it most.
But what if you could get paid to be a family caregiver?
Believe it or not, there are many programs and resources available to help you do just that!
In this article, we will discuss 6 of the best ways that can help you get paid for providing care to your loved ones.
The Financial Challenges for Family Caregivers
Before we get into the programs that can help you get paid to be a caregiver, it’s important to understand the financial challenges that many caregivers face.
According to a survey from the AARP, 78% of caregivers incur out of pocket costs to perform their duties.Â
This cost includes both direct expenses (such as medical and equipment costs) and indirect costs (such as the value of lost wages and the cost of providing care for a loved one).Â
The good news is that there are many programs and resources available to help offset the cost of caregiving.
6 Ways to Get Paid While Taking Care of a Family Member
Now that we have a better understanding of the financial challenges faced by family caregivers, let’s take a look at the best programs available to help you get paid for your caregiving duties.
Medicaid Funded Programs
One way to get paid for being a caregiver is to participate in a Medicaid funded caregiver program.
Each state has different rules and regulations regarding these programs. For example, in NY the CDPAP program allows patients to hire family and friends to be their caregivers. To qualify for the program a patient must:
- Have Medicaid.
- Require home care.
- Be self-directing, or have a representative that can direct their care.Â
Check out the Medicaid programs in your state for the specific qualifications for these Medicaid funded caregiver programs.
The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (Veteran’s benefit)
If you are a veteran or the spouse of a veteran, you may qualify for The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.Â
This program provides caregivers with a monthly stipend, training and medical coverage for the veteran they are caring for.
To qualify for the program, you must:
- Be the primary caregiver for a veteran who is 100% disabled due to service-related injuries.
- Meet income and asset requirements.
- Be available for training.
For more information, or to apply for the program, visit the VA website .
The National Family Caregiver Support Program
The National Family Caregiver Support Program is a federally funded program that provides support to caregivers of adults with chronic illnesses or disabilities.
The program provides:
- Caregiver training.
- Respite care.
- Assistance with accessing community resources.
- Monthly stipend.
To be eligible for the program, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- Be caring for an adult with a chronic illness or disability.
- Be the primary caregiver (not paid to provide care).
- Meet income eligibility requirements.
For more information, or to apply for the program, visit the National Family Caregiver Support Program website .
Long-term care insurance (LTCI)
Long-term care insurance (LTCI) is an insurance product that can help cover the expenses related to long-term care. These expenses are not typically covered by regular health insurance.
LTCI can help pay for services such as home care, adult daycare, assisted living, and nursing home care.
To qualify for LTCI, a person must be able to demonstrate that they need long-term care now or are likely to need it in the future.
Caregiver Contracts
Another way to get paid for being a caregiver is to sign a caregiver contract with the person you are providing care for.
A caregiver contract is a legal agreement between the caregiver and the person receiving care.
The contract can outline:
- The services the caregiver will provide.
- The compensation the caregiver will receive.
- The length of time the contract is in effect.
It is important to have a lawyer look over any caregiver contract before signing it. Also, make sure that all your family members agree to the terms of the contract as this can help avoid any disagreements later on.
Life Settlements
A life settlement involves the sale of a life insurance policy for more than the cash surrender value.
The person selling the policy (the seller) is typically a senior who no longer needs the life insurance coverage.
This will give the seller some cash to pay for expenses, like paying you for your caregiving services. Of course this option is not ideal for everyone and should only be considered if all other options have been exhausted.
There are a number of companies that offer life settlements, so do your research to find one that is reputable.
Conclusion
Being a caregiver for a family member is difficult. The long hours, the stress, and the emotional toll it takes can be overwhelming.
You shouldn’t have to lose out from a financial standpoint because you are providing this valuable service to your loved ones.
These programs can help you get compensation for the care you are providing to your loved one.
