Can I get paid to care for my parent?
Some family members can get paid to care for a parent. One way is a state Medicaid program that lets your parent choose their own helpers. Another is a Veterans Affairs (VA) caregiver program for some veterans.
Medicaid programs your parent directs
Many state Medicaid programs offer self-directed services. Your parent, or someone acting for them, decides who gives some of their care and how, with support from the program.
Each state chooses its own version. Ask your parent's state Medicaid office if its program lets them hire a family member, and what it pays.
VA programs for family caregivers
One VA program can pay the main family caregiver each month. Its name is the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. It also gives training, help with stress, and at least 30 days of respite care a year. A main caregiver with no other health plan may get health coverage through CHAMPVA, the VA's health program for families.
The veteran must have a VA disability rating of 70% or higher. They must be out of the military, or have a date set for a medical discharge. They must be in VA health care and need at least 6 months in a row of hands-on personal care. The caregiver must be at least 18 and be family, or live full time with the veteran.
If your parent doesn't qualify, the VA's Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS) offers support but no stipend.
Other places to look
If your parent has long-term care insurance, read the policy. Some pay for care at home. For a veteran who needs daily help, also read can my veteran parent get VA Aid and Attendance?.
Even without pay, there is free help for caregivers. Read where can I get help as a family caregiver?.
Checklist
- Ask the state Medicaid office about self-directed programs and family caregivers.
- If your parent is a veteran, check the VA family caregiver programs.
- Read any long-term care insurance policy for home care benefits.
- Keep a log of the care you give and the hours.
Common questions
Does Medicare pay family caregivers?
No. Medicare does not pay family members to give care. Some state Medicaid programs and VA programs may.
Can Medicaid pay me to care for my mom?
In some states, through programs your mom directs. Ask her state Medicaid office if its program lets her hire a family member.
Who can get the VA caregiver stipend?
The main family caregiver of a veteran who meets VA's rules. The veteran needs a VA disability rating of 70% or higher. They must also need at least 6 months in a row of in-person personal care.
Do you know what to do next?
Sources
- Written by
- The PlanScout team. Updated Oct 26, 2026.
- Corrections
- See something wrong? Tell us. We fix confirmed errors within 2 business days and note the change in the page's change log.
Sources (2)
- Medicaid.gov — Self-directed services (retrieved Oct 26, 2026)
- VA.gov — Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (retrieved Oct 26, 2026)
This guide is general information, not medical, legal, or financial advice. Confirm details with the provider, your plan, or a licensed professional.