Can you get paid to care for a family member in Connecticut?

Yes, through 2 programs we verified. In Connecticut, a relative who lives with an older adult or person with a disability may be paid as the primary caregiver through Adult Family Living, if the relative is not legally responsible for them (such as a spouse). Under the CT Home Care Program for Elders, family members generally cannot be paid as personal care attendants. Community First Choice lets Medicaid members hire their own attendants, but the state has proposed moving CFC participants to waivers starting April 1, 2027.

Which Connecticut programs pay family caregivers?

Adult Family Living (CT Home Care Program for Elders and Personal Care Attendant Waiver)

• Type: Adult foster care
• Who can be paid: A primary caregiver who lives with the participant and provides personal care and support. The caregiver may be a relative, as long as they are not a legally liable relative (such as a spouse).
• Who qualifies for care: Participants in the CT Home Care Program for Elders (age 65+, at risk of nursing home placement, financially eligible) or the Personal Care Attendant Waiver who live in a home with a primary caregiver.

Community First Choice (CFC)

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Personal care attendants the participant hires and manages through self-direction. Which relatives can be hired is not stated on the state's CFC page.
• Who qualifies for care: Connecticut Medicaid (HUSKY) members living in the community who need help with daily activities and meet an institutional level of care.

Are there national programs too?

Yes. Veterans may qualify for VA programs that pay or support family caregivers: Veteran Directed Care and the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

What should you confirm with the state?

Rules on hiring family members under Community First Choice could not be confirmed on an official page. Ask DSS (dial 2-1-1, option 3) before you apply.