Getting Paid as a Family Caregiver

Becoming a family caregiver requires a tremendous amount of time, energy, and effort. For many, it becomes a fulltime job. Or, more to the point, providing ongoing care makes it impossible for you to maintain a fulltime job.

Depending on your circumstances, it might not be feasible for you to go months (or years) without the steady check that full time employment would bring. So asking for compensation isn’t selfish; it’s realistic. It means putting yourself in a position where you’re able to provide the care your heart is asking of you.

There’s a lot to know about receiving compensation as a family caregiver, though.

Whether you’re able to receive payment for your services depends on a few factors, including:

• Where you live

• Whether you have an agreement in place with your family

• Whether your loved one is covered under a government or private benefits program