30+ Caregiver Assistance Programs

Caregiving is often an act of love, but it fundamentally reshapes your work schedule, financial stability, and personal health.

Multiple federal, state, and nonprofit programs exist specifically to support family caregivers. The challenge: These programs are fragmented across different agencies, eligibility rules vary by state, and many families don't know what assistance they qualify for.

This guide explains the major caregiver assistance programs available, what they offer, who qualifies, and how to apply.

Types of Caregiver Assistance Available

Caregiver support rarely comes as a single check or one-time benefit. Understanding the different types of assistance helps you identify which programs to pursue.

Financial Assistance and Stipends

Some programs provide direct financial support to caregivers, though these are more limited than many families hope. Financial assistance is typically tied to the care recipient's eligibility (their diagnosis, military service, or insurance coverage) rather than the caregiver's need alone.

Programs that may offer payment:

• VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (monthly stipend for eligible Veteran caregivers)

• Medicaid self-directed care programs in some states (allows care recipients to hire family members)

• State-specific caregiver stipend programs (availability varies significantly)

Reality check: Most family caregivers do not receive payment for caregiving. The majority of assistance comes as services (respite, training, counseling) rather than cash.

Respite Care Services

Respite care provides temporary relief so primary caregivers can rest, handle personal appointments, or simply take a break. This is one of the most commonly available forms of caregiver assistance.

Where respite may be available:

• Through local Area Agencies on Aging via NFCSP funding

• VA PCAFC (at least 30 days per year for eligible caregivers)

• Medicare hospice benefit (short-term inpatient respite for hospice-eligible patients)

• Medicaid HCBS waivers (depending on state program design)

Respite can take different forms: in-home care by a trained worker, adult day programs, or short-term residential stays.

Training and Education Programs

Proper caregiver training makes care safer and less stressful for both you and your loved one. Training programs often cover medication management, safe transfers, wound care, dementia communication techniques, and recognizing health changes.

Common training sources:

• NFCSP-funded local training through Area Agencies on Aging

• VA caregiver training for Veteran family members

• Medicare-covered caregiver training (limited to 8 hours per condition when part of home health plan)

• Hospital and community health system caregiver education programs

Support Groups and Counseling

Caregiving brings significant stress, social isolation, and emotionally difficult decisions. Mental health support for caregivers is increasingly recognized as essential.

Where to find support:

• NFCSP funds caregiver counseling and support groups in many communities

• Condition-specific support groups (Alzheimer's Association, cancer support organizations, etc.)

• Online caregiver communities and virtual support groups

• Mental health counseling covered by your own health insurance

Medical Equipment and Supplies

Coverage for equipment and supplies varies dramatically based on insurance type, medical diagnosis, and documented medical necessity.

Potential coverage sources:

• Medicare Part B (durable medical equipment with doctor's order)

• Medicaid (equipment coverage varies by state)

• Medicare hospice benefit (equipment related to terminal diagnosis)

• VA benefits (equipment for service-connected conditions)

• Private insurance (check specific policy coverage)

Equipment like hospital beds, wheelchairs, walkers, and lift chairs may be covered when medically necessary and properly documented.

Federal Government Programs

National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP)

The National Family Caregiver Support Program provides federal funding that flows to states and territories to support family and informal caregivers. This is often the most accessible starting point for family caregivers who don't have access to VA or Medicaid benefits.

Administered Through Local Aging Networks

NFCSP funds are distributed through state Units on Aging to local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), which means services and availability differ by location. What's available in one county may differ from the next county over.

Services Commonly Provided

According to the NFCSP framework, core support categories typically include:

Information and assistance about available services and how to access them

Access assistance helping you navigate systems and connect to resources

Counseling, support groups, and caregiver training to build skills and provide emotional support

Respite care providing temporary relief from caregiving duties

Limited supplemental services which may include things like emergency response systems, minor home modifications, or transportation assistance

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility varies based on who's providing care, who's receiving care, and local program rules. Generally:

• You must be a family or informal caregiver (not a paid professional)

• The care recipient is typically 60+ or has Alzheimer's/related disorders

• Some programs prioritize based on caregiver age, income, or care intensity

• Grandparents raising grandchildren often qualify

Your local Area Agency on Aging can explain specific documentation requirements, any screening processes, and whether waitlists exist in your area.

How to Access Services Locally

Step 1: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit eldercare.acl.gov

Step 2: Request contact information for your local Area Agency on Aging

Step 3: When you call your AAA, ask specifically: "What caregiver support and respite services are available through NFCSP in my area? How do I apply?"

What to expect: Most agencies will schedule an intake assessment, either by phone or in person, to discuss your situation and determine which services you're eligible for.

Veterans Affairs Caregiver Programs

If you're caring for a Veteran, specialized VA programs offer support that's generally more comprehensive than what's available through civilian programs.

Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

The VA's Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers supports eligible caregivers of eligible Veterans who need personal care services due to a serious injury incurred or aggravated in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001 (or certain pre-9/11 Veterans who meet expanded eligibility).

What PCAFC may include:

Monthly stipend based on the Veteran's level of need and local nursing home costs (this is actual payment to caregivers)

At least 30 days of respite care per year to give primary caregivers breaks

Caregiver training specific to the Veteran's care needs

Mental health services and counseling for the caregiver

Beneficiary travel benefits in some situations

Access to health insurance through CHAMPVA if the caregiver doesn't have other coverage

Important limitations: Not all Veterans or caregivers qualify. The Veteran must have a service-connected disability requiring personal care services, and the caregiver must complete an application and training process.

How to Apply for VA Caregiver Benefits

Visit the VA's Program of Comprehensive Assistance page or call the VA Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274. The application process includes:

• Completing VA Form 10-10CG (Application for Family Caregiver Benefits)

• Clinical assessment of the Veteran's needs

• Training requirements for the designated caregiver

• Regular reassessments to maintain eligibility

Timeline: The application and approval process typically takes 90-120 days, though this varies.

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)

Medicaid is state-administered, which means caregiver-related supports differ dramatically by location. One major pathway for caregiver support is Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) 1915(c) waivers.

Understanding HCBS Waivers

HCBS waivers allow states to cover services that help people receive long-term support at home or in the community rather than in nursing facilities. According to Medicaid guidance on 1915(c) waivers, nearly all states and DC offer HCBS waiver services, and states can operate multiple waivers targeting different populations (elderly, people with disabilities, traumatic brain injury, etc.).

Services that may include caregiver support:

• Respite care (in-home or facility-based)

• Personal care services

• Adult day health services

• Home modifications and assistive technology

• In some states: payment to family caregivers through self-directed care options

State-Specific Waiver Programs

Because each state designs its own waivers, what's available in California differs significantly from what's available in Florida or New York.

Key state variations:

• Which populations are eligible (age, diagnosis, functional limitations)

• Which services are covered

• Whether family members can be paid caregivers

• Waitlist lengths (some states have years-long waiting lists)

• Income and asset limits

What to Ask Your State Medicaid Office

When you call your state Medicaid office, use specific terminology that matches HCBS waiver language:

Essential questions:

• "Which HCBS waivers could my family member qualify for based on their age and condition?"

• "How do you assess functional need and create a plan of care?"

• "Do you offer respite care or family caregiver supports through these waivers?"

• "Is there a waitlist, and how long is the current wait time?"

• "Can family members be paid caregivers through self-directed care options?"

Finding your state contact: Search "[Your State] Medicaid HCBS waiver" or call your local Area Agency on Aging for guidance on Medicaid waiver programs.

Medicare Caregiver Support

Medicare's coverage for caregiver-related services is extremely limited. Understanding what Medicare does and doesn't cover prevents wasted time pursuing benefits that don't exist.

Limited Respite Coverage Through Hospice

If your family member qualifies for hospice care, the Medicare hospice benefit may cover short-term inpatient respite care in specific situations when arranged by the hospice team. This respite is typically limited to 5 consecutive days at a time and must be approved in advance.

When hospice respite applies:

• The patient must be Medicare-eligible and enrolled in hospice

• Respite must be medically necessary

• The hospice program coordinates the placement

• Medicare covers up to the respite care benefit limit

What Medicare Usually Does Not Cover

Outside of hospice-related respite, Medicare generally does not cover:

• Long-term custodial care at home

• Adult day care programs

• Payment to family caregivers

• Extended respite services

• Personal care that isn't skilled nursing

The Medicare hospice coverage page provides helpful clarification that Medicare is designed primarily for medical care, not ongoing long-term daily caregiving assistance.

Workplace Support Programs

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides eligible employees of covered employers with job-protected leave for certain family and medical reasons. While FMLA doesn't provide payment, it protects your job and health benefits during caregiving crises.

FMLA basics:

• Up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year

• Continuation of health insurance during leave

• Applies to caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition

Eligibility requirements:

• You must work for a covered employer (generally 50+ employees)

• You must have worked for the employer for at least 12 months

• You must have worked at least 1,250 hours in the past 12 months

• You must work at a location with 50+ employees within 75 miles

Important limitations: FMLA is unpaid leave. You may be able to use accrued paid time off concurrently with FMLA, but the federal law doesn't require payment.

How to use FMLA: Notify your employer, provide required medical certification from the care recipient's doctor, and work with HR to complete necessary paperwork. Review the Department of Labor's FMLA fact sheet for complete requirements.

State-Specific Paid Family Leave

Several states have implemented paid family leave programs that go beyond federal FMLA:

States with paid family leave (as of 2025):

• California

• New York

• New Jersey

• Rhode Island

• Washington

• Massachusetts

• Connecticut

• Oregon

• Colorado

• Delaware

• Maryland

These programs typically provide partial wage replacement (50-90% of wages up to a cap) for several weeks while caring for a seriously ill family member. Check your state's labor department for specific program details.

Tax Benefits for Caregivers

Federal Tax Considerations

Tax benefits for caregivers are complex and depend on your specific circumstances. The IRS provides FAQs for caregivers addressing common situations.

Potential tax benefits:

Claiming a dependent: You may be able to claim your care recipient as a dependent if you provide more than half their support, they meet income tests, and other IRS requirements are satisfied.

Medical expense deduction: If you itemize, you can deduct qualified medical expenses exceeding 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. This can include expenses you pay for your dependent's medical care.

Child and Dependent Care Credit: If you pay for care services so you can work, you may qualify for this credit (though the care recipient must meet specific dependency tests).

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): If your employer offers Dependent Care FSAs, you can set aside pre-tax dollars (up to $5,000) to pay for care expenses.

Keeping Records for Tax Purposes

Proper documentation is essential for claiming caregiver-related tax benefits.

What to keep:

• Receipts for all medical expenses, medications, and supplies

• Documentation of payments to care providers

• Benefit statements from insurance and assistance programs

• Mileage logs for medical transportation

• Records of care recipient's income and assets

• Documentation proving you provided more than half of support

Best practice: Organize records throughout the year rather than scrambling at tax time. Use a dedicated folder or digital system specifically for caregiver expenses.

Work with a professional: Tax rules for caregivers are complicated and change regularly. Consult a tax professional or use free tax preparation services like VITA or TCE (for eligible taxpayers) to ensure you're claiming all appropriate benefits.

State-Specific Programs

Beyond federal programs, many states offer their own caregiver support initiatives. These vary dramatically but may include:

State caregiver tax credits (check your state's department of revenue)

State respite programs with funding beyond federal NFCSP allocations

State-funded caregiver stipend programs in some locations

Lifespan respite programs coordinating respite across different funding streams

To find state programs: Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or search "[Your State] caregiver assistance programs" for current offerings.

How to Navigate Multiple Programs

Most families benefit from combining several programs rather than relying on a single source of support.

Strategic Approach to Accessing Benefits

Step 1: Inventory your situation

• What insurance does your care recipient have? (Medicare, Medicaid, VA, private)

• What's your employment situation? (eligible for FMLA? State paid leave?)

• What's your immediate need? (respite? training? financial help?)

Step 2: Start with the broadest access point

• Call Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116)

• Connect with local Area Agency on Aging

• Request a comprehensive assessment of available services

Step 3: Pursue specialized programs

• If caring for a Veteran: Apply for VA caregiver programs

• If care recipient has Medicaid: Ask about HCBS waivers

• If employed: Explore FMLA and state paid leave options

Step 4: Address tax planning

• Consult with a tax professional about claiming dependents and deductions

• Track all caregiving expenses throughout the year

Step 5: Revisit regularly

• Eligibility and available programs change as care needs evolve

• Reassess every 6-12 months or when circumstances change significantly

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get paid to take care of my parent?

It depends on several factors. Some programs that may allow payment to family caregivers include:

• VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance (for eligible Veteran caregivers)

• Medicaid self-directed care programs (in states that allow hiring family members)

• Long-term care insurance (if the policy allows payment to family caregivers)

Most family caregivers do not receive payment. Your best starting point is contacting your local Area Agency on Aging and asking about payment options in your state.

What's the difference between NFCSP and VA caregiver programs?

NFCSP is available to most family caregivers and provides services (respite, training, counseling) but typically not payment. VA caregiver programs are only for those caring for Veterans and may include monthly stipends plus additional services. VA programs generally offer more comprehensive support but have stricter eligibility requirements.

How do I find out if my state has Medicaid waivers that could help?

Contact your state Medicaid office and specifically ask about "HCBS 1915(c) waivers" or "Home and Community-Based Services waivers." Your local Area Agency on Aging can also explain which waivers exist in your state and help you understand eligibility requirements.

Does FMLA provide paid leave?

No, federal FMLA provides unpaid, job-protected leave. However, several states have implemented paid family leave programs that provide partial wage replacement. Check if your state offers paid family leave through your state's labor department.

What caregiver expenses are tax deductible?

If you itemize deductions, you may be able to deduct qualified medical expenses exceeding 7.5% of your AGI. This can include medical care costs for a dependent you're caring for. Review IRS Publication 502 and consult a tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.

Takeaway

Caregiver assistance programs exist, but they're fragmented across federal, state, and local systems with different eligibility rules and application processes. Most families need to combine multiple programs to get meaningful support.

If the system feels overwhelming: Aviator can help you identify which programs you likely qualify for, prepare for application processes, track multiple applications, and coordinate the complex landscape of caregiver assistance. Learn more at aviatorhealth.co/signup.

You don't need to navigate this alone. These programs exist specifically to support family caregivers—accessing them is a strategic decision to sustain your caregiving role while protecting your own well-being.

Disclaimer:
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. Program eligibility, benefits, and availability change regularly. Consult with qualified professionals and contact programs directly for current information specific to your situation. Aviator provides advocacy and care navigation support, but individual circumstances vary. In emergencies, contact 911 or appropriate emergency services immediately.

Sources

Administration for Community Living. (n.d.). Eldercare Locator. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://eldercare.acl.gov/home

Administration for Community Living. (n.d.). National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://acl.gov/programs/support-caregivers/national-family-caregiver-support-program

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Changes in health indicators among caregivers aged 45 years or older: 48 states and the District of Columbia, 2016 and 2022. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 73. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7334a2.htm

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (n.d.). 1915(c) home and community-based services waivers. Medicaid.gov. https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/home-community-based-services/home-community-based-services-authorities/home-community-based-services-1915c

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (n.d.). Hospice care. Medicare.gov. https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/hospice-care

Internal Revenue Service. (n.d.). FAQs for caregivers. https://www.irs.gov/faqs/irs-procedures/for-caregivers

Internal Revenue Service. (n.d.). Publication 502: Medical and dental expenses. https://www.irs.gov/publications/p502

U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division. (n.d.). Fact sheet #28: The Family and Medical Leave Act. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/28-fmla

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC). https://www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/health-and-disability/comprehensive-assistance-for-family-caregivers/