FAQ Friday: Child Caregiver
On Friday, April 11th, Attorney, Paula Mattson-Sarli talks about Child Caregivers.
There are a lot of considerations when in this position. If you are doing things like dressing your parents, bathing them, taking them to appointments, managing finances etc.
One thing you might consider once getting to this point, is are your parents safe to remain in home? This is a difficult decision-emotionally, financially etc. However, something many don’t know is that you can get paid as your parent’s caregiver.
It would not be seen as a gift for Medicaid purposes. We recommend keeping a log book as you write down anytime you go to the house and when you leave and to document what you do. Have your parents pay you and report it as income.
A caregiver agreement or personal care agreement covers the pay rate and what is covered and hours to be worked for documentation.
If you move in with your parents to care for them and live there for 2 years prior to admission into a nursing home, then the home can be transferred to you as a child caregiver exception.
Veteran benefits allows children to be caregivers as well. Again, all of this info is specific to a child and not any other family member. Make sure there is a diagnosis and a documented need for care in order to be able to do so.
Having options can be really helpful for possible spend-downs needed in the future.
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