Can I Get Paid to Care for My Parent, Spouse, or Child in Michigan?

One of the most common questions families ask about Michigan’s Medicaid Home Help Program is whether they can get paid to care for a loved one. If you're helping a parent, spouse, or even an adult child with daily tasks, you may be eligible to receive compensation for the care you already provide.

Here’s what you need to know about who can be a paid caregiver through the program.

👩‍👩‍👧 Can Family Members Be Paid?

Yes, Michigan allows family members to be paid caregivers — with some limitations.

You can be paid to care for:

• Your parent or grandparent

• Your adult child, under certain conditions

• A sibling

• Other relatives, including aunts, uncles, or cousins

• A friend or neighbor

You cannot be paid to care for:

• A spouse (currently not allowed under the Home Help Program)

🧑‍⚖️ What About Caring for an Adult Child?

If you're caring for an adult child (age 18+), the rules depend on guardianship:

• If your adult child makes their own decisions (no court-appointed guardian):
  ✅ You can be paid as their caregiver

• If you are the court-appointed guardian, then:

  • You can only be paid if your guardianship order specifically allows it

  • If your guardianship prohibits payment or doesn’t mention it, you may be ineligible

You may need to provide a copy of your court documents during the application process.

🛑 Why Can’t I Be Paid to Care for My Spouse?

Under current Michigan policy, spouses cannot be paid caregivers through the Medicaid Home Help Program. This is a long-standing policy due to federal and state rules around intra-household caregiver compensation. However, if your spouse qualifies for other programs (like Veterans Affairs benefits or certain managed care options), different rules may apply.

📋 General Eligibility Rules for Paid Caregivers

To be paid through the Home Help Program, you must:

• Be 18 or older

• Pass a background check

• Register in the CHAMPS system

• Complete a provider agreement

• Submit timesheets through the electronic visit verification (EVV) system

🧾 How to Get Started

1. Make sure the person needing care has active Medicaid

2. Complete the application forms (DHS-390 and DHS-54A)

3. Be present for the home visit by the Adult Services Worker

4. Enroll as a provider through CHAMPS

5. Start receiving payment once hours are approved and services begin

📝 Final Tip

If you're caring for a loved one daily — helping with bathing, mobility, meals, or medication — you may qualify for financial assistance through the Michigan Home Help Program. Knowing the eligibility rules can save you time and ensure you're applying the right way.

👉 Learn more or begin your eligibility screening at michiganhomehelp.org