WHO QUALIFIES

Who qualifies for paid family caregiving in Michigan?

There are two parts to consider: whether your loved one qualifies for Home Help services and whether you qualify to provide their paid care.

Check My Eligibility → Call (313) 251-1560

This page is informational. MDHHS determines eligibility and approved services.

TWO PARTS TO CONSIDER

Your loved one, and you

Home Help looks at both the person receiving care and the person providing it. Here’s what each side needs.

The person receiving care

Requirements for your loved one

Your loved one may be eligible if they:

  • Live in Michigan in a qualifying home setting.
  • Have qualifying Medicaid coverage. Medicare alone is not enough.
  • Need physical assistance with at least one personal care activity, such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, or moving around the home.
  • Have the required medical needs certification and complete an MDHHS assessment.

Final eligibility depends on Medicaid coverage, assessed needs, living arrangements, and other program requirements. Needing only companionship, reminders, or help with chores does not establish Home Help eligibility.

The paid caregiver

Who can be a paid caregiver?

An adult child, sibling, grandchild, other eligible relative, or friend may qualify. A parent caring for an adult child may also be eligible. Caregivers must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Be able to safely provide the required care.
  • Meet enrollment and background screening requirements.
  • Not be receiving Home Help services themselves.

A nursing license isn’t a general requirement for routine personal care. Additional training may be needed for particular care needs.

RELATIONSHIPS

Who can be paid to provide care?

Most relatives and friends can qualify. Two relationships can’t be paid under Michigan Home Help rules.

  • Adult childCaring for a parent
  • SiblingBrother or sister
  • GrandchildCaring for a grandparent
  • Other relativeAunt, uncle, niece, nephew, in-law
  • FriendOr another trusted person
  • Parent of an adult childChild aged 18 or older
  • SpouseCaring for a husband or wife
  • Parent of a minorOwn child under 18

Important relationship restrictions

Under Michigan Home Help rules, a spouse cannot be paid to care for their spouse, and a parent cannot be paid to care for their own minor child. A caregiver also cannot receive Home Help services themselves. Other program restrictions may apply.

WHAT COUNTS AS NEED

Hands-on personal care is the key

Home Help is for people who need physical help with daily personal care. Household help can be part of an approved plan, but it can’t qualify someone on its own.

Can be part of approved care

  • Bathing & grooming — washing and personal hygiene
  • Dressing — getting dressed and undressed
  • Eating — hands-on help at mealtimes
  • Toileting — help with bathroom needs
  • Mobility & transfers — moving around the home, getting into and out of a bed or chair
  • Approved household support — meal preparation, laundry, light housework, and essential shopping

Doesn’t qualify on its own

  • Companionship or supervision alone
  • Reminders or prompting
  • Help with chores only
  • Transportation
  • Heavy cleaning, home repairs, or yard work

Approved services depend on your loved one’s assessment and care plan.

A daughter and her elderly father talking on a living-room sofa

WE’RE HERE TO HELP

Not sure about Medicaid or your family’s situation?

You do not have to figure it out alone. If you are unsure about coverage, the care your loved one needs, or your relationship as a caregiver, tell us what you know. We can discuss what to review next.

Check My Eligibility → Read the FAQs →

Find out whether Home Help may be a fit

Start an initial review with Caring Family Homecare in Dearborn, Michigan.

Check My Eligibility → Call Us Today: (313) 251-1560  →

This review is informational. MDHHS determines eligibility and approved services.