In some states, caregivers are offered at least some level of compensation for caring for a family member. These include:
Colorado- In rural areas, family members providing assistance to loved ones may be eligible to receive up to $400 per month as compensation to provide personal care services.
North Dakota- Pays up to $700 per month to spouses and other family members who care for Medicaid beneficiaries living in rural areas who would otherwise require admission to a nursing home.
Wisconsin- A family member may be eligible for compensation either for caregiving or, in some situations, for performing services normally provided by a social worker.
North Carolina- family caregivers supporting loved ones may be able to reduce out of pocket expenses through the use of state-funded vouchers that can be used to buy nutritional supplements, incontinence supplies, and personal emergency response systems, among other items. In some circumstances caregivers may be eligible for direct cash compensation. While in most cases compensation is provided to family members who are not immediate family, there are times when immediate family is eligible for pay, such as when they are caring for a loved one with dementia who lives in a rural area.
Massachusetts- Elders who meet Medicaid criteria and who qualify for nursing home care now have the option of receiving compensated home-based care from family members or friends. The Enhanced Adult Foster Program covers up to $18,000 annually for family members who provide 24-hour care in the home. These caregivers receive specialized training, support of both a registered nurse and a care manager, and help in locating respite services.