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

Yes, through 2 programs we verified. In Montana, Medicaid members who need personal care can choose Self-Directed Community First Choice or Personal Care Services and hire their own attendants. The person or their representative handles hiring, training and managing the attendant. The Big Sky Waiver also offers self-directed options for people who meet nursing facility level of care.

Which Montana programs pay family caregivers?

Self-Directed Community First Choice / Personal Care Services (SD-CFCS/PCS)

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Personal care attendants the person or their personal representative hires, trains and manages. Which relatives can be hired was not stated on the state's program page.
• Who qualifies for care: Montana Medicaid members who need help with activities of daily living (CFCS also requires nursing facility level of care), have authorization from a health care professional, and can show they understand the program's requirements (or have a personal representative who does).

Big Sky Waiver (self-direction option)

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Workers hired under the waiver's self-directed services. Family-member rules were not confirmed.
• Who qualifies for care: Older adults and adults with physical disabilities who meet nursing facility level of care and Montana Medicaid rules.

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 on an official page which family members can be paid in Montana. Ask the DPHHS Community Services Bureau (406-444-4564) or your case manager.