Wondering how much you can get paid to care for a loved one in Georgia? The answer depends on the program. Family caregivers may receive hourly pay through Medicaid waivers like CCSP and SOURCE, daily stipends through Structured Family Caregiving (SFC), or monthly payments through certain VA programs. These payments typically come from Medicaid or the Department of Veterans Affairs—not directly from the state.
At FreedomCare, we help families understand their options, qualify for programs, and get paid for the care they’re already providing.
Providing care for a loved one is one of the most meaningful yet challenging roles anyone can undertake. The emotional rewards are significant, but the financial strain can’t be ignored. In Georgia, many family members find themselves stepping into full-time caregiving roles with little to no pay. But there’s good news: several programs in the state allow family caregivers to receive compensation for their time and care.
At FreedomCare, we help families navigate these options every day. If you’re wondering how much family members can get paid for caregiving in Georgia or how to get paid by the state for taking care of someone, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.
Understanding the Role of a Family Caregiver
A family caregiver is someone who provides regular assistance to a loved one who is aging, chronically ill, or living with a disability. These caregiving responsibilities can include:
- Helping with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene
- Administering medications or managing prescriptions
- Assisting with mobility and transportation
- Preparing meals and helping with feeding
- Providing companionship and emotional support
- Coordinating medical appointments and care routines
The time and dedication required to fulfill these duties can raise questions such as:
“How can I be a paid caregiver for my mother at home?”
“How do I get paid for taking care of a family member?”
These are questions many caregivers across Georgia are exploring. And the answer is: through Medicaid waivers, Structured Family Caregiving, VA programs, and even private insurance.
Family Caregiver Pay Programs in Georgia
How FreedomCare Works in Georgia
FreedomCare partners with Georgia’s Medicaid programs to help eligible family caregivers get paid for the care they already provide at home. In Georgia, we work with the following programs:
- Structured Family Caregiving (SFC)
- Community Care Services Program (CCSP)
- SOURCE (Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment)
Each of these programs supports families who are caring for an aging or disabled loved one. FreedomCare helps you navigate the process, check your eligibility, and handle the paperwork so you can focus on what matters most—caring for your family.
Structured Family Caregiving (SFC)
- How much can you get paid? Caregivers receive a daily stipend, with total monthly payments varying based on the program and the level of care provided.
- Who it’s for: Family members (excluding spouses/guardians) living full-time with the Medicaid-eligible care recipient.
- Best for: Long-term, full-time caregivers providing support for developmental disabilities or chronic conditions.
Read more about the Structure d Family Caregiving (SFC) program in Georgia
Community Care Services Program (CCSP)
- How much can you get paid? Typically $10–$15 per hour, depending on the county and level of care.
- Who it’s for: Non-spouse relatives providing home-based help like bathing, meals, and errands.
- Best for: Seniors who qualify for nursing-home-level care but want to stay at home.
SOURCE (Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment)
- How much can you get paid? Similar to CCSP: $10–$20 per hour, depending on care complexity.
- Who it’s for: Caregivers helping with both medical and personal care needs.
- Best for: Family members assisting someone with complex medical needs at home.
Veteran-Directed Care (VDC)
Veteran-Directed Care is a program through the Department of Veterans Affairs that allows eligible veterans to hire and pay their own caregivers, including family members. While this can be a great option for veterans needing long-term support at home, this program is not part of FreedomCare in Georgia.
If you’re a veteran or caring for one, you can contact your local VA Medical Center to learn more about enrollment and eligibility for VDC.
- How much can you get paid? Monthly budgets can exceed $2,000–$3,000, depending on VA needs assessment.
- Who it’s for: Family members (including adult children) of veterans enrolled in VA healthcare.
- Best for: Veterans who want to manage their care and hire family instead of outside aides.
Aid & Attendance (A&A) Benefit
- How much can you get paid? Up to $3,200 per month for married veterans.
- Who it’s for: Veterans or surviving spouses needing help with daily activities.
- Best for: Veterans with a VA pension who need in-home assistance.
Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)
- How much can you get paid? Monthly stipend varies by location and tier — often between $1,000 and $2,800/month.
- Who it’s for: Family caregivers of veterans with a 70%+ service-connected disability.
- Best for: Post-9/11 and Vietnam-era veterans receiving care from a family member.
Long-Term Care Insurance
- How much can you get paid? Varies — some policies reimburse $100–$150/day for family caregiving.
- Who it’s for: Families with private LTC policies that allow informal caregivers.
- Best for: Loved ones who have long-term care insurance and want to keep care in the family.
Private Pay Agreements
- How much can you get paid? Fully negotiable. Families often agree to $15–$25 per hour.
- Who it’s for: Family members without access to public benefits or insurance reimbursement.
- Best for: Situations where families want to formalize and document payment for care.
How Much Do Family Members Get Paid for Caregiving in Georgia?
This depends on the program:
- CCSP & SOURCE: Typically $10 to $20 per hour, depending on the county
- SFC: Daily stipends based on the service provider’s rate
- VA Programs: Up to $3,200/month depending on the veteran’s needs and location
These payments usually come from Medicaid or the VA, not directly from the state. FreedomCare helps with eligibility checks, enrollment, and payroll.
How to Become a Paid Caregiver in Georgia
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Most caregiving programs require Medicaid eligibility. Your loved one may qualify if they:
- Are over 65, blind, or disabled
- Have limited income/assets
- Require assistance with daily tasks
Step 2: Choose the Right Program
- Live with your loved one? → SFC may be the best fit
- Is your loved one a veteran? → VA programs like VDC or A&A can help
- Need personal or medical care? → SOURCE or CCSP might apply
- Have LTC insurance? → Private reimbursement may be possible
FreedomCare can help you make the right choice.
Step 3: Complete Assessments & Training
Each program includes a needs assessment. Some require caregiver training in:
- Medication
- Emergency procedures
- Personal care and mobility
Step 4: Develop a Care Plan
With a case manager, create a plan outlining:
- Daily tasks
- Safety procedures
- Emergency plans
Step 5: Begin Caregiving and Get Paid
Depending on the program, you’ll receive:
- Hourly wages (SOURCE, CCSP)
- Daily stipends (SFC)
- Flexible budgets (VA programs)
FreedomCare handles payroll and paperwork so you can focus on caregiving.
FAQs
Can spouses be paid caregivers in Georgia?
Generally, no. Spouses and legal guardians are excluded from most programs.
What’s the difference between CCSP and SOURCE?
SOURCE focuses on medical integration, while CCSP emphasizes non-medical care and independence.
Do I have to live with my loved one?
Only for certain programs like SFC or specific VA benefits.
Is FreedomCare available in Georgia?
Yes! FreedomCare supports families through SFC and other Medicaid programs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re providing care for a loved one in Georgia, financial support is available. Whether through Medicaid programs like CCSP, SOURCE, and SFC, VA benefits, or long-term care insurance, you may be eligible for payment for the care you already give.
FreedomCare is here to help. From choosing the right program to managing the paperwork, we’re with you every step of the way.
Curious if you qualify? Contact FreedomCare or your regional Medicaid or DBHDD office today to get started.