Can Family Members Get Paid for Caregiving in Wisconsin?

Family members can get paid for caregiving in Wisconsin through Medicaid’s waiver programs and Veterans Affairs. However, your loved one must meet eligibility requirements to qualify for in-home care in Wisconsin. Using these programs eases your financial burden, allowing you to focus on your loved one’s well-being.

Medicare provides coverage for some home health services, but these services must be medically necessary. Daily living tasks such as bathing and meal preparation aren’t medically necessary, leaving many seniors scrambling to find appropriate care. The cost of in-home care is another limiting factor to accessing help. According to Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey, a home health aide costs $5,720 per month in Wisconsin, making it infeasible for low-income households.

Fortunately, Medicaid waiver programs allow your loved one to divert their Medicaid dollars to a family member providing care. The Family Care Waiver, the Family Care Partnership Waiver and the IRIS program are available across Wisconsin. The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly is more limited in scope; it serves older adults in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Racine and Waukesha counties. Due to their popularity, the programs have enrollment caps, and there may be a waiting list. To determine eligibility, contact your local Medicaid office.

Veterans requiring assistance with activities of daily living can hire a family member as their caregiver. The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers provides family caregivers with a monthly stipend and the opportunity to access respite care. There are straightforward eligibility requirements for the veteran and the caregiver.

The veteran must meet a disability threshold, have been discharged from the military and require continuous health care services for at least six months. To be an eligible family member, you must be at least 18 years old and be willing to live full-time with the veteran you’re supporting.