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Can Family Members Get Paid for Caregiving in Tennessee?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
In Tennessee, family members can get paid for caregiving via several options. The state government offers both financial assistance and resources to those in charge of a family member’s in-home care. There are also some tax credits available to caregivers and specialized services for the families of veterans.
How Can Family Caregivers Get Paid for Their Time?
In Tennessee, about a quarter of adults are caring for a disabled or elderly family member or friend. They provide help around the house and assistance with personal care. Caregiving can be both mentally and physically taxing, which is why the state and federal government offers support. Under the TennCare CHOICES in Long-Term Services and Supports program, eligible seniors can get help paying for in-home care. This consumer-directed initiative allows beneficiaries to choose their caregivers. It can also be used to pay for assistive devices and home modifications that enhance home safety and accessibility. Approved friends, neighbors and family members who meet training requirements can be paid to deliver care under this program.
Family members caring for Tennessee veterans can also be compensated for their time through the VA. The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers provides a monthly stipend for primary caregivers of a veteran family member. This program also offers mental health supports, health care education and 30 days of respite to all caregivers. Federal tax breaks are available to those who care for an elderly or disabled dependent in their homes. In addition to a flat $500 tax credit, the IRS also reimburses the cost of hired help to caregivers who attend work and school.
Where Can Family Caregivers Find Support?
Though the Tennessee Commission on Aging & Disability, caregivers can gain access to the National Family Caregiving Support Program, which provides counseling, support groups and information. Area Agencies on Aging support older adults and their families by connecting them with resources and case management services via nine agencies around the state. Additionally, state and federal veteran centers can be a helpful resource for families of service members.