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

Yes, through one program we verified. In Illinois, people under 60 with severe disabilities can hire their own personal assistant through the Home Services Program, and that assistant can be an adult child or other relative. A spouse or the parent of a child under 18 cannot be paid through this program. Older adults (60+) apply through the Illinois Department on Aging instead.

Which Illinois programs pay family caregivers?

Home Services Program (HSP), Individual Provider / Personal Assistant

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: A personal assistant (Individual Provider) the customer selects, employs and supervises, which can include adult relatives. A spouse, the parent, stepparent, foster parent or legal guardian of a child under 18, and the customer's own minor child cannot be paid.
• Who qualifies for care: People under age 60 with severe disabilities who need help with daily activities at home and are at risk of moving into a nursing home or other facility. People 60 and older are served by the Illinois Department on Aging.

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 for paying family members in Department on Aging programs for people 60 and older were not confirmed. Ask the Department on Aging Senior HelpLine (1-800-252-8966).