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

Yes, through one program we verified. In Minnesota, Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) lets people on Medical Assistance or a waiver choose their own support workers, and relatives can be hired. State law allows spouses and parents of minor children to be paid support workers with weekly hour limits, but that part takes effect only with federal approval. The person receiving care must be assessed as needing help with at least one daily activity.

Which Minnesota programs pay family caregivers?

Community First Services and Supports (CFSS)

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Support workers chosen by the participant, through an agency or the participant-employer model, which can include relatives. State law also lets a spouse or the parent of a minor be a paid support worker (a spouse or a single parent up to 60 hours a week; two parents up to 40 hours each), once federal approval is in place.
• Who qualifies for care: Minnesotans eligible for Medical Assistance, Alternative Care or a home and community-based waiver who are assessed as dependent in at least one activity of daily living or have a Level I behavior.

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?

Ask your county or tribal nation, or your health plan, whether a spouse or parent can currently be paid under CFSS.