Caring for a loved one at home – whether due to aging, disability, or illness – is a significant commitment.
In Vermont, there are programs and pathways through which family members or trusted individuals can be paid (or otherwise compensated) for providing in-home care under certain conditions. While this route may not apply in every scenario, many families can take advantage of available options.
This article will walk you through how you can become a paid family caregiver in Vermont: what the key programs are, the eligibility criteria, how to apply, key steps, and important things to watch out for.
Why Vermont Supports Family Caregiving at Home
Vermont has always prioritized community-based care over institutional settings. Programs like the Attendant Services Program and Choices for Care show the state’s belief that people truly thrive in familiar surroundings, surrounded by the people they love.
These programs don’t just boost emotional well-being-they also help cut down on healthcare costs for the state.
By compensating family members for caregiving, Vermont recognizes how important relatives are in providing long-term support. It’s a thoughtful, practical approach that values independence for those receiving care while fairly supporting their caregivers.
Major Programs That Enable Paid Family Caregiving in Vermont
If you’re in Vermont and looking for ways to get paid for providing care to a loved one, here are some key programs that can help:
The Attendant Services Program (ASP)
The Attendant Services Program is a Medicaid participant-directed program designed to help people with disabilities who need support with daily tasks.
Here’s what you need to know:
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The care recipient must be eligible for Vermont Medicaid and have a permanent and severe physical disability, or need help with at least two daily activities.
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The care recipient (called the participant) is in charge! They hire, train, and supervise their personal assistant (caregiver), who can be a family member or friend. However, spouses, civil union partners, or legal guardians are usually not allowed to be the caregiver.
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Caregivers are paid at a Medicaid-approved hourly rate, and the participant must live at home or in a family home-not in an assisted living facility.
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Since this is a state plan service (not just a waiver), there’s no waiting list. Once eligible, services are guaranteed.
Choices for Care Waiver / Consumer-Directed Services
The Choices for Care Waiver is part of Vermont’s Global Commitment to Health program. It’s for older adults (65+) or adults 18+ with disabilities who meet the level of care required for a nursing facility.
What makes this program great:
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Participants can choose a consumer-directed option, which allows them to pick their caregiver-sometimes even a family member!
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The care recipient must meet both Medicaid financial and functional need requirements.
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Family members can get paid under the right model, though there are some rules (like restrictions for spouses or legal guardians). It’s always a good idea to check the specific program details in your area.
Children's Personal Care Services (CPCS)
This program is designed for kids under 21 on Medicaid who need help with daily living tasks.
Key details:
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Families have control over who provides care and can often hire someone they prefer. Parents or legally responsible adults can even get paid to be the caregiver if they meet the requirements.
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A payroll agency (like ARIS Solutions) takes care of all the employment details-taxes, wages, workers’ comp, and more-so you can focus on care.
These programs are here to support you and your loved ones. Be sure to check out the details to find the best fit for your situation!
When to Apply for Caregiver Payment Programs in Vermont
You should start exploring caregiver payment options as soon as your loved one begins needing regular help with daily living activities such as bathing, eating, or mobility. Early application gives you time to complete the Medicaid eligibility process and assessments required by Vermont’s care programs.
Waiting until the situation becomes urgent can lead to delays or missed benefits. Contact your local Department of Disabilities, Aging & Independent Living (DAIL) office early to begin. Taking proactive steps ensures your loved one gets the care they need without financial strain.
Eligibility & Requirements
Thinking of becoming a paid caregiver in Vermont? To get started, both the person receiving care and the caregiver need to meet a few requirements and follow some program guidelines.
Who Can Receive Care?
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First, the person receiving care needs to live in Vermont and be enrolled in Medicaid (or be eligible for it) for the specific program they’re interested in.
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For ASP: They’ll need to have a physical disability and need a little help with at least two “activities of daily living” (ADLs).
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For Choices for Care: The person should be at a “nursing-facility level of care” and fall into the target group (either an older adult or an adult with a disability).
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For CPCS: The child needs to meet specific diagnostic and Medicaid eligibility criteria, plus require assistance with personal care tasks.
Who Can Be a Caregiver?
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As a caregiver (whether you’re a family member or a friend), you’ll need to meet the program’s requirements. This usually involves a background check, some training or orientation (which can vary by program), and official enrollment.
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A note on relationships: For the ASP program, spouses, civil union partners, and legal guardians are typically not eligible to be paid caregivers.
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You’ll be expected to perform authorized services, like helping with ADLs/IADLs such as bathing, dressing, moving around, and preparing meals.
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Documentation: Remember to document your hours and tasks according to program rules. Payments are usually processed through a special fiscal or payroll agent. For CPCS, having a payroll agent is a must!
Important Program Details to Keep in Mind
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It’s good to know that if the care recipient’s situation changes (for example, if they get better or move to a facility), or if they no longer qualify for the program, services and caregiver payments might need to stop.
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As a caregiver, you’ll need to follow all provider rules, complete any necessary training, and stay compliant with program guidelines.
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Just a heads-up: accepting payments outside of the official program could potentially affect the care recipient’s Medicaid eligibility or might not be recognized as proper compensation.
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Don’t forget about taxes and employment! Since you’ll be earning income, you’ll likely need to report it, and it’s good to consider your employment status.
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Always make sure to check the specific details of your local program and ensure you’re using the correct provider agreement and payment method. This will help everything run smoothly!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Paid Family Caregiver in Vermont
Ready to make a difference and get paid for caring for a loved one? Here’s your simple, step-by-step roadmap:
Step 1: Determine if Your Loved One Qualifies
Start by checking whether your loved one meets the Vermont Medicaid eligibility requirements and qualifies functionally or medically for one of the state’s caregiving programs – Attendant Services Program (ASP), Choices for Care, or Children’s Personal Care Services (CPCS).
Assess whether they need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or eating, and whether they meet the program’s level-of-care criteria.
Also, confirm your own eligibility as a potential caregiver. Each program has its own rules regarding who can be paid – for example, some exclude spouses or legal guardians from compensation.
Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Program Model
If your loved one is an adult (18+) with a disability who needs regular assistance with daily tasks, the Attendant Services Program (ASP) may be the right fit.
If they are 65 or older or an adult with a disability who qualifies for a nursing-facility level of care but prefers to stay home, the Choices for Care waiver is often best.
For children under 21 with Medicaid and personal care needs, CPCS provides structured in-home support. Verify that each program allows family caregivers to be paid and confirm relationship eligibility before proceeding.
Step 3: Apply for Eligibility
For ASP or Choices for Care, begin by applying for Vermont Medicaid if not already enrolled. The care recipient must then complete a functional assessment to determine their care needs and program eligibility.
For CPCS, contact the Children’s Personal Care agency to complete the intake process, submit medical documentation, and undergo a functional screening. Once approved, a care plan outlining authorized hours and services will be created.
Step 4: Enroll the Caregiver or Provider
After approval, the care recipient (or their representative) selects a caregiver – which can be you – and begins the provider enrollment process. Caregivers must pass background checks, complete training or orientation, and sign necessary paperwork.
For consumer-directed models, the care recipient acts as the employer, and a fiscal/employer agent such as ARIS Solutions manages payroll and employment logistics, ensuring caregivers receive proper payment for documented hours.
Step 5: Provide Care, Document Hours, and Get Paid
Once enrolled, begin providing care according to the authorized service plan – this may include personal care, mobility assistance, toileting, or meal preparation.
Keep accurate documentation of hours and services provided. Payments are processed through the program’s fiscal intermediary or payroll system. Pay rates vary depending on the program and care level, with Vermont caregivers often earning around $19.00 per hour on average.
Step 6: Maintain Compliance and Monitor Changes
Stay informed about any changes in the care recipient’s condition, living situation, or Medicaid eligibility, as these can impact your caregiving hours or payment. Continue fulfilling all training and reporting requirements to remain in good standing as a provider.
For ongoing support, use available respite care, training programs, and caregiver grants offered by the state. These resources help you maintain your well-being and provide sustainable, high-quality care for your loved one over time.
How Much Can You Be Paid?
Payment rates in Vermont vary depending on the program, hours authorized, region, caregiver relationship and tasks. Some guide points:
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A statewide resource lists an average pay rate of approximately $19.39 per hour for family caregivers under relevant programs in Vermont.
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Under the Attendant Services Program, the caregiver is paid a Medicaid-approved hourly rate. The exact rate will depend on the locality and tasks.
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Because actual pay depends on authorized hours and program structure, you should ask locally: “What is the hourly rate in my county under ASP or Choices for Care?” and “How many hours of care have been approved for my loved one?”
Although compensation may not always equate to full-time employment wages for some caregivers, being formally paid is a significant step compared to purely unpaid caregiving.
Common Mistakes That Delay Caregiver Pay Approvals
During the caregiver application process, even small errors can lead to significant payment delays. Families often lose valuable time waiting for corrections that could have been prevented with careful preparation. Here are the most common issues to watch out for:
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Missing or incomplete documentation – Applications lacking identification, income proof, or signed consent forms can’t be processed until all paperwork is complete.
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Misunderstanding Medicaid eligibility rules – Every program has unique criteria. Overlooking income limits or medical requirements often results in stalled approvals.
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Ignoring relationship restrictions – Some programs, such as the Adult Services and Protective (ASP) system, do not allow spouses or certain family members to serve as paid caregivers. Always confirm relationship eligibility in advance.
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Incomplete training or orientation – Payments can’t begin until all mandatory caregiver training and safety certifications are successfully finished.
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Failure to track care hours – Neglecting to log or verify care hours during the enrollment phase can delay payment authorization.
To prevent setbacks, keep a checklist of all required forms, stay in contact with your case manager, and confirm your caregiver qualifications early. A proactive, organized approach ensures smoother approval and faster access to compensation for your caregiving work.
How to Maintain Payment and Program Compliance
Once you start receiving payment as a caregiver, staying compliant is super important to keep those payments coming smoothly. Remember to always follow your care plan closely, keep a good record of all your hours, and use the program’s payroll system.
If your loved one’s health or living situation changes, please let your case manager know as soon as you can. Vermont programs often do periodic check-ins, so it’s a good idea to be ready to update any forms and documents when they’re needed.
By staying in touch and keeping your records accurate, you’ll help protect your eligibility and make sure your caregiver payments continue without a hitch!
Important Considerations & Pitfalls to Avoid
While paid family caregiving in Vermont is possible, there are crucial caveats to keep in mind:
1. Avoid informal payment arrangements
While it might seem simpler, paying yourself outside of an approved program-for instance, through a private cash arrangement without formal enrollment-is risky. Such informal payments can jeopardize the care recipient’s Medicaid eligibility, as it may be viewed as an unapproved transfer of assets.
Furthermore, this type of compensation may not be recognized by the state, meaning you won’t have the legal protections or benefits of a formal employee. It’s always safer and more secure to follow the official program route.
2. Confirm caregiver eligibility for your relationship
Not all family relationships qualify for paid caregiving under every program. For example, some programs specifically exclude spouses, civil union partners, or legal guardians from being paid caregivers (the ASP, for instance, excludes spouses and legal guardians).
Before you invest time in the application process, always verify the specific rules about eligible family relationships in your county or for the particular program you’re considering.
3. Understand your role as a paid caregiver/provider
Once you are paid under a formal program, your role shifts from providing informal help to being part of a formal provider/employer arrangement.
This means you are expected to meet professional standards, which may include completing specific training, verifying your provider eligibility, maintaining detailed documentation, and undergoing supervision.
You’ll also be integrated into an employment and payroll system. It’s a significant step beyond casual family assistance and comes with professional responsibilities.
4. Maintain accurate documentation and adhere to the service plan
Timely and correct payment depends on meticulous record-keeping. You must accurately document the hours you work and the specific tasks you perform, all while strictly adhering to the care recipient’s official service plan.
Without proper documentation and alignment with this plan, your payments could be delayed or even denied. Every task and hour logged should directly correspond to what has been authorized.
5. Monitor changes in eligibility or authorized hours
A care recipient’s needs are not static. If their health improves, if they move into a long-term care facility, or if their eligibility status changes for any other reason, the number of authorized care hours may be reduced or eliminated entirely, causing payments to stop.
To avoid surprises, maintain regular contact with the case manager or service agency to stay informed about any potential changes to the care plan or eligibility.
6. Be aware of tax and employment implications
Being paid for caregiving means you are earning taxable income. You will likely have to report this income to the IRS and state.
Depending on the program structure, particularly in a consumer-directed model where you are the provider, you need to understand your employment status, how taxes will be handled, and any potential implications for other benefits you might receive. This is not “under-the-table” money; it is formal employment income.
7. Evaluate sustainability and compensation vs. workload
Even with compensation, caregiving remains a physically and emotionally demanding job. Before committing, take a realistic look at the arrangement. Consider the number of hours approved, the hourly pay rate, and the specific nature of the care tasks involved.
You need to weigh whether the compensation adequately reflects the workload and if the arrangement is sustainable for you in the long run without leading to burnout. Ensure it truly meets your financial needs and personal capacity.
Tips for Balancing Caregiving and Self-Care in Vermont
Even with financial support, caregiving in Vermont can be both emotionally demanding and physically exhausting. To provide the best possible care for your loved one, it’s essential to care for yourself as well.
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Use available state resources – Vermont offers valuable support through organizations such as Senior Solutions and the Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living (DAIL). These programs provide respite care, support groups, and caregiver training to help you manage daily challenges.
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Create a balanced routine – Establish a predictable schedule that includes time for meals, rest, and personal activities. Structure helps reduce stress and prevent burnout.
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Schedule regular breaks – Even short periods of rest or time away can restore energy and improve focus. Don’t hesitate to rely on respite services or family support when needed.
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Connect with others – Joining a local or online caregiver support group can provide emotional relief and practical advice from people who understand your experience.
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Prioritize your own health – Proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise are not luxuries-they are essential to sustaining your strength and emotional balance.
Remember, self-care isn’t selfish-it’s a cornerstone of effective caregiving. When you’re rested, supported, and emotionally well, you can provide more consistent, compassionate care for your loved one.
Resources to Get Started
Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living – Attendant Services Program (ASP)
Allows eligible adults with disabilities or older adults to hire and pay certain family members (excluding spouses and legal guardians) as caregivers under Medicaid.
Caregiver+2Medicaid Planning Assistance+2
Choices for Care (CFC) – Medicaid Waiver Program
Enables older adults (65+) or adults with disabilities who meet nursing-home level of care criteria to receive funds which can be used to hire family caregivers (with some restrictions).
Caring+1
Children’s Personal Care Services (CPCS) – Vermont Department of Health
Services for children under 21 with disabilities via Medicaid; families may hire caregivers (including relatives) to support daily living tasks.
Health Vermont
AARP Vermont – Caregiver Support Grants & Resources
Provides grants and support services for family caregivers (e.g., respite, in-home help, day-services). Grants are not direct wages for caregiving but help relieve caregiver responsibilities.
Senior Solutions+1
Local elder-law attorney or Medicaid planning specialist
Provides guidance on eligibility, the required contracts/legal protections, asset & income limits, and how payments to family caregivers can affect Medicaid eligibility and taxes.
FAQs
Can I get paid to take care of my mother in Vermont?
Yes. Government programs and the Structured Family Caregiving Program under Human Services provide financial assistance for in home caregivers helping older adults with medication management and homemaker services. Community based services help families support care in their own homes.
Can a family member get paid to be a caregiver in Vermont?
Yes. Family members and informal caregivers may qualify under self directed services or the Medicaid Program. Area Agency on Aging and local area agencies help families apply, pay family members, and plan a flexible budget.
Can you get paid for taking care of your parents in Vermont?
Yes. The Dementia Respite Grant, Veteran Directed Care, and Adult Day Services are four programs offering financial assistance and monthly payments for caregivers. These community based services also include adult day care and home health services for serious illness or Alzheimer’s disease.
Can I be a caregiver for my autistic child in Vermont?
Yes. Parents of children with developmental disabilities or health condition can apply through Human Services for medical care, home modifications, and other services. Federal government and insurance company programs help with employee benefits and paid family leave.
Can a spouse be a paid caregiver in Vermont?
Sometimes. Veterans Benefits, VA Benefits, and Veterans Affairs assist disabled veterans or deemed eligible spouses through enhanced residential care. These four programs and adult day health options offer more assistance and help make informed decisions about long-term support.
Conclusion
If you’re a family caregiver in Vermont, you can get paid for the essential work you do. It’s all about finding the right program and making sure your loved one is eligible.
Programs like the Attendant Services Program (ASP) or Choices for Care are great options, but you’ll need to pay close attention to eligibility requirements, keep accurate records, and follow the provider rules. The first steps are to confirm Medicaid eligibility and choose the service program that works best for your family.
Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to create a formal care plan, carefully track the care you provide, and stay on top of all the program requirements. This ensures you’ll be paid fairly while helping your loved one live safely and comfortably at home.
