Taking care of a loved one is tough. Doing it full-time without getting paid? Even harder. The good news—you don’t have to. If you live in Missouri and have Medicaid, you can get paid to care for a family member. Yes, really.

Through a state program called Consumer Directed Services (CDS), you choose who provides your care. That caregiver—your daughter, son, relative, or friend—gets paid for helping you at home.

At FreedomCare, we make the process simple. You get care from someone you trust. They get paid instantly after each shift.

This guide breaks it all down: how much caregivers earn, who qualifies, and how to get started. If you’re helping someone you love, keep reading. You could be earning for the care you already give.

insurance company or work for a facility. You’re doing the job and getting paid directly.

How Much Do Family Caregivers Get Paid in Missouri?

When you choose FreedomCare through Missouri’s CDS program, you don’t just provide care—you get paid for it.

Standard and Overtime Pay Rates for Family Caregivers

Caregivers in Missouri receive hourly pay, with additional compensation for overtime when working more than 40 hours a week. That’s real income for the care you’re already giving.

This can make a big difference, especially if you’re an adult child caring for a parent. You don’t need to go through an insurance company or work for a facility.

Additional Perks of FreedomCare

Instant Pay after every shift
Weekly guaranteed payments
A dedicated Caregiver Support Program
Reliable peace of mind for everyone involved

We’re not just about hiring caregivers, we’re about helping families deliver the best care with less stress and more control over their health care future.

Click here to check your eligibility in Missouri today!

Can You Get Paid to Care for a Family Member in Missouri?

Yes, you can. Missouri offers a way to pay family caregivers through a Medicaid-funded program that helps people receive care in the comfort of their own homes. Instead of moving into a nursing home, eligible individuals can stay where they’re most comfortable, with someone they trust.

Missouri’s Medicaid-Funded Caregiver Program (CDS)

The Consumer Directed Services (CDS) program is part of Missouri’s medicaid programs. It allows individuals to hire a caregiver of their choice, like an adult child, relative, or friend, just not a spouse, as a general rule.

These CDS caregivers help with personal care services, meals, errands, mobility, and more. The person receiving care directs their own care while the caregiver gets payment funded through medicaid benefits.

CDS is run by the Missouri Department of Senior and Disability Services, offering comprehensive assistance and support for both care recipients and caregivers. It’s one of the best medicaid waivers available for families seeking financial assistance with care costs.

Who Qualifies for Paid Family Caregiving?

You may qualify if you meet these eligibility requirements:

You have Medicaid
You need long-term care or help with personal care
You are at least 18
You live in Missouri
You can determine and direct your own services

This is the general rule: You must show that you need help and can guide your caregiver. The application process includes an in-home assessment by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, a background check, and submitting required documentation.

And no, Medicare alone doesn’t qualify. You need Medicaid.

Who Can Be a Caregiver?

You can choose a caregiver you trust. That includes:

An adult child
A sibling
A relative
A close friend

These are often called informal caregivers, and they provide home care in a familiar setting.

But here’s the catch: your spouse cannot be paid through this program due to state law.

Through CDS, caregivers may also receive caregiver training, access respite care, and get help with case management. In some situations, programs like structured family caregiving or the structured family caregiving waiver offer extra support.

This isn’t just a job, it’s a system that values the care you already provide, backed by real payment, support, and dignity.

How to Become a Paid Caregiver for a Family Member

Getting started with FreedomCare is simple. We’ve made the process easy so you can focus on what matters most, caring for your loved one.

Enrollment Process with FreedomCare

Step 1: Get Assessed

A Senior Social Services Specialist from the state of Missouri visits your home. They’ll evaluate how much care is needed and confirm that you qualify for the program.

Step 2: Choose a Caregiver

You pick someone you trust. That could be your daughter, son, sibling, or friend, just not a legal spouse (Missouri rule). Once selected, we schedule a quick orientation call to finalize enrollment.

Step 3: Start Getting Paid

As soon as care begins, your chosen caregiver starts getting paid. Instantly. No waiting for checks—just reliable, same-day pay after every shift. Caregivers must follow scheduling regulations in order to be paid after each shift.

FreedomCare Eligibility Check

Want to know if you qualify?
Fill out a simple online form, takes just a few minutes. Click here to get started.

Prefer to talk to someone? We’re here to help. Call us at 866-989-1047 to speak with a friendly team member and get started today.

*Disclaimer: FreedomCare currently supports only the Aged and Disabled Waiver and the Independent Living Waiver in Missouri. We do not process or facilitate services through other waiver programs in the state. The highlighted waivers below are for informational purposes only and do not constitute specific advice.

The Bottom Line

If you live in Missouri and have Medicaid, you don’t have to rely on strangers for care. You can choose someone you trust, a family member or friend, to provide care at home. And the best part? That caregiver gets paid.

FreedomCare is Missouri’s leading CDS program, trusted by thousands. We offer instant pay after every shift, a strong Caregiver Support Program, and a smooth, stress-free process from start to finish. Whether you’re caring for a parent, sibling, or friend, we make sure you get the support and payment you deserve.

Don’t wait. Getting started is fast and easy.

Call us at 866-989-1047 or check your eligibility now to see how quickly you can join FreedomCare and start getting care, and getting paid.

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