As the sole caregiver for my Mother (96), would money received under a care agreement render ME ineligible for PA Medical Assistance?

Yes, for Medicaid purposes the income from the Caregiver agreement would be added to your other income in determining your Medicaid eligiblity. That being said, income almost never causes a person to be disqualified, since the amount paid to the nursing home or for other medical expenses is simply deducted first (some states require the use of a simple trust--called a Miller Trust--to hold the income before it is passed on to the nursing home). So unless your total income exceeds the actual cost of the nursing home, it should not as a practical matter cause disqualification from Medicaid.

It would be considered income for Medicaid purposes. Have you talked with an elder law attorney? I certainly would there maybe a way to pay you, into a trust or something and not have it countable as income? Shares in her home?

As a CPA, I can tell you that income is income. You can't set up a trust to hide earned income that will have your SS# on it. Shares in her home? same answer.

You just need to look up what the maximum allowable income is, surely. But if your mother is paying you this money as part of a formal contract then it is income, same as any other.

Potential care agreement? You are not being paid now but possibly in the future?

Monies received by you for caregiving are considered countable assets as far as Medicaid goes.

Thanks for the responses. Yes, "gladimhere" I/we haven't executed the Caregivers Agreement yet because I'm 67 and the medical insurance is very important. The slightest increase in income would jeopardize my "low-income" benefits. Yes, "countrymouse" I know what the various allowable limits are BUT I didn't know if the money from a Caregivers Agreement was absolutely, positively considered income that would effect my eligibility.
Thanks again.

Thank you, K. Gabriel Hauser for this: income almost never causes a person to be disqualified since the amount paid to the nursing home or for other medical expenses is simply deducted first. I have been to numerous "Medicaid Specialists" who were clueless about this. After years of caring for my husband, I can say respectfully that there is no amount of payment that I wouldn't trade for freedom from this responsibility. May I be spared from the kind of disability that could force a loved one to do what I've chosen to do for so very many years out of love that has become utter defeat and exhaustion.

My aunt's agreement (written) is that she will share utilities and grocery costs. With 3 adults in the home, she pays 1/3. She also pays the companion company several days a week. None of it is my income.