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

Yes, through one program we verified. In Maryland, a relative can be paid to provide personal assistance to someone on Community First Choice or the Home and Community-Based Options Waiver by working for a licensed home care agency. The person receiving care chooses and directs the worker, and the agency employs them. The person must be on Maryland Medicaid and meet a nursing facility level of care.

Which Maryland programs pay family caregivers?

Community First Choice (CFC) and Home and Community-Based Options Waiver - personal assistance services

• Who can be paid: Relatives and legal guardians who work for a licensed residential service agency enrolled with Medicaid, on the same terms as other workers. The participant's representative cannot be assigned as the worker.
• Who qualifies for care: Maryland Medicaid members who meet an institutional (nursing facility) level of care and need help with daily activities; the waiver serves older adults and adults with physical disabilities.

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?

We could not confirm whether a spouse or the parent of a minor child can be paid. Ask Maryland Access Point (1-844-627-5465) or your supports planner.