Financial Support Through Medicaid Waivers in Maryland
Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, plays a vital role in supporting low-income individuals, including families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. In Maryland, specific Medicaid waivers enable caregivers to receive compensation through self-direction programs. These allow care recipients to select their own caregivers, even family members.
In Maryland, here's a look at the available waivers that allow for caregiver pay:
- Community Pathways Waiver and Community Supports Waiver: Both cater to individuals 18 years and older with developmental disabilities requiring an ICF/IID level of care.
- Family Supports Waiver: This is available for individuals aged 0-21 with similar developmental needs and care requirements.
Compensation is influenced by several factors, such as program guidelines, local wage rates, and the caregiver's qualifications, experience, and time commitment.
Always remember, Medicaid policies may change; keeping abreast with updates from the official Maryland Medicaid website or the Maryland Department of Human Services is wise.
Veteran Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Veterans or their surviving spouses in Maryland can utilize several programs to fund family caregiving:
- Veteran Directed Home & Community Based Care: Gives veterans the authority to manage their care budget, potentially hiring family as caregivers with pay ranging from $8–$21 per hour.
- Aid & Attendance Pension: This can provide up to $3,261 per month for professional care, including from family members.
- Housebound Pension Benefit: Offers benefits for veterans mostly homebound, with funds up to $1,882 per month; note that spouses cannot be paid under this benefit.
- Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers: Provides a stipend of up to $2,750 per month plus other support, given certain eligibility requirements are met.
Tax Credits for Caregivers
Tax credits can provide valuable savings for caregivers. In Maryland, the Child and Dependent Tax Credit (CDCTC) can offer a credit based on care-related expenses. Maryland adds an extra 33% match to the federal CDCTC, which can lead to an additional $195 reduction in taxes.
Maryland's legislature is considering a potential new tax credit that could cover 30% of caregiving expenses up to $5,000, although it's still under consideration.
Other Payment Options for Family Caregivers
- Attendant Care Program: Offers reimbursement for care services, allowing the employment of family members 18 and older.
- Long-term Care Insurance: Some policies may allow funds to be directed to family caregivers.
- Employer-Sponsored Caregiving Leave: Some employers offer paid leave for caregiving, and a Maryland rule set for 2025 will provide paid leave worth up to $1,000 per week.
Find Support Through Maryland's Area Agencies on Aging
Maryland's Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) offer essential support, like information on local resources, caregiver training, respite care, support groups, and more.
Know Your Caregiver Rights in Maryland
Maryland has put into place several laws and programs to support caregivers:
- Flexible Leave Act: Allows the use of earned leave to care for immediate family members.
- Temporary Disability Assistance: Offers partial wage replacement during leave.
- Paid Leave Law: Mandates paid leave by employers for caregiving.
- CARE Act: Provides essential information for caregivers of hospitalized patients.
Being informed about these support systems can significantly ease the financial and emotional burden of caregiving in Maryland, allowing caregivers to provide necessary care while maintaining their own well-being and financial stability.
