Everything you need to know about getting paid to care for a loved one in Nevada
Yes, you must have Medicaid to qualify. Medicare alone is not enough for this program. The program is designed specifically for people who are approved for Medicaid and need help with daily activities at home.
If you don’t have Medicaid yet but think you may qualify, you can apply through your state’s Medicaid office. If you’re in Nevada, you can call the Nevada Medicaid office for help applying. For northern Nevada, call 775-687-1900. For southern Nevada, call 702-668-4200. If you’re in another state, we can help point you to the correct office and walk you through what to expect.
Yes, you are eligible to be a paid family caregiver if you have Medicare and Medicaid in Nevada. Medicare alone does not cover in-home caregiving by a family member, but Medicaid can. As long as your Nevada Medicaid benefits are active and a doctor confirms that you need help with daily activities, you may be able to choose a family member or friend to be your paid caregiver. We can help you check eligibility and walk you through the enrollment process step by step.
No, you do not qualify for FreedomCare’s family caregiver program in Nevada. You must have Medicaid to qualify for this program. Medicare alone does not cover paying a family member or friend to provide daily caregiving at home.
If you don’t have Medicaid but believe you may qualify, you can apply through Nevada Medicaid. For northern Nevada, call 775-687-1900. For southern Nevada, call 702-668-4200. If you’d like, we can also help you understand the Medicaid application process and what documents you may need to get started.
You may qualify for in-home care in Nevada if:
During the assessment, the evaluator reviews your daily routine, safety needs, and the level of assistance required. If the assessment shows that you need ongoing support, you may qualify to choose a family member or friend as your paid caregiver.
No, there are no specific restrictions based on diagnosis of illnesses alone. In Nevada, eligibility is based on whether the person has Medicaid and needs help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, preparing meals, or moving safely around the home. The type of illness or condition matters less than the level of support the person requires day to day. If the assessment shows that hands-on help is needed, the individual may qualify to choose a family member or friend as their paid caregiver.
Yes, if you have disability benefits and/or SSI you may qualify. Receiving disability benefits or SSI does not prevent someone from qualifying. What matters is whether the person has Medicaid or is eligible for Medicaid in Nevada. Many people who receive SSI automatically qualify for Medicaid, and others may be able to apply based on medical need and income. If the person has Medicaid and needs help with daily activities at home, they may be able to choose a family member or friend to be their paid caregiver through this program. FreedomCare can help confirm eligibility and guide you through the next steps.
In most cases, if you already have a home attendant, your relative can get paid only if you choose to receive all your caregiving hours through them instead. Nevada Medicaid does not allow your approved care hours to be split between a home care agency and a family caregiver at the same time. Your total number of hours stays the same. For example, if you’re approved for 20 hours per week, those hours can be provided either by your current home attendant or by your relative enrolled as your caregiver, but not both.
If you’re considering switching to a family caregiver, we can help you understand the process and walk you through what the change would look like.
Yes, you can still join this program while receiving hospice care in Nevada. Hospice focuses on comfort and quality of life, and Nevada Medicaid allows in-home support services alongside hospice as long as the care does not duplicate the same tasks. Your hospice team provides medical and end-of-life support, while your chosen family caregiver can help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, preparing meals, and staying safe at home.
If you’re unsure whether your current plan allows both, we can help review it with you and guide you through the next steps.
Yes, in Nevada, a caregiver and the person receiving care can live in the same home. This is very common and supported by the program. The caregiver must be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to work in the U.S.
However, a legal spouse cannot be hired as the paid caregiver, and a legal guardian cannot be hired to provide paid care either. As long as the caregiver is someone other than a legal spouse or legal guardian, and the individual receiving care has Medicaid and qualifies for daily support, they may be able to move forward.
No, there is no cost to participate in this program. It is funded through Nevada Medicaid. If the person receiving care has Medicaid and meets the eligibility requirements, the program covers the cost of having a qualified family member or friend provide care at home. There are no enrollment fees or out-of-pocket charges for the participant or the caregiver. If you’re unsure whether Medicaid is active or you need help applying, FreedomCare can guide you through that process.
Yes, if you choose to move forward with FreedomCare in Nevada, it would replace your traditional home care services. Your approved Medicaid care hours stay the same, but those hours would be provided by your chosen caregiver instead of a home care agency. You cannot receive the same set of care hours from both at the same time. If you’re considering switching, FreedomCare can help you understand what that transition would look like and answer any questions before you make a decision.
Step 1: Confirm Medicaid Eligibility
You must have active Nevada Medicaid to qualify. If you don’t currently have Medicaid but believe you may be eligible, contact FreedomCare and we can help you understand the application process.
Step 2: Schedule Your Assessment
You’ll request in-home personal care services through Nevada Medicaid or your Managed Care Organization. FreedomCare can guide you on who to contact and what to ask for.
Step 3: Receive Your Plan of Care
A nurse, physical therapist, or occupational therapist will complete an assessment to determine your care needs. Your approved care hours and official plan of care are based on this assessment.
Step 4: FreedomCare Submits Authorization
Once the plan of care is in place, FreedomCare helps complete the required forms and orientation so your caregiver can be enrolled.
Step 5: Welcome Call and Start of Care
After approval, FreedomCare schedules a welcome call to confirm your start date and make sure everything is ready for your caregiver to begin providing care at home.
You must contact FreedomCare first, and we will guide you on the next steps. The process for switching can vary depending on whether you are on Nevada Medicaid Fee-for-Service or enrolled with a Managed Care Organization (MCO). In some cases, FreedomCare will submit the transfer request on your behalf. In other cases, we’ll help you understand which forms or requests your health plan may require.
Once the transfer is complete, your approved care hours will remain the same, but they will be provided by your chosen family caregiver instead of your previous home care agency.
Yes, you can change your caregiver at any time and you may have multiple caregivers. Just call FreedomCare, and we’ll help you start the caregiver change process. The new caregiver must complete the enrollment steps before they can begin providing care.
However, having multiple caregivers does not increase the number of care hours you are approved for. Your authorized hours stay the same and can be shared between the caregivers. We’ll help you set up a schedule that works best for your situation.
If you have a Designated Representative, they will help coordinate your care with FreedomCare. They can assist with managing your caregiver’s schedule, completing paperwork, and communicating with FreedomCare on your behalf. Your Designated Representative may also work with your Medicaid plan or case manager if any updates or changes to your care plan are needed. Their role is to help make sure your care runs smoothly and that you continue to receive the support you need at home.
Yes, someone with a part-time job can still be a caregiver in Nevada, as long as they are able to provide the number of care hours approved in the plan of care. The caregiver must be consistently available during the times the patient needs support. It’s important that they can balance both their job and their caregiving responsibilities so that the required level of care is provided each week. If you are unsure whether your work schedule will fit, we can review your approved hours together and help you plan a schedule that works.
No, caregivers do not need to be certified to join this program in Nevada. No prior training or professional experience is required. FreedomCare provides guidance and support so your caregiver understands what to do and how to provide care safely at home.
Having a misdemeanor does not automatically disqualify you from becoming a caregiver in Nevada. What matters most is your ability to provide safe, dependable, and compassionate care. However, Nevada Medicaid does require a fingerprint-based background check for all caregivers. Certain serious offenses may prevent approval, but many misdemeanors do not. If you’re unsure about your situation, we can help you review the requirements and see whether you may still qualify.
Once the patient has been approved for services and their plan of care is in place, the caregiver enrollment process begins. As the caregiver, you will need to:
Step 1: Complete a Health Screening
This includes a basic health assessment and a Tuberculosis exam.
Step 2: Complete a Fingerprint Background Check
Nevada Medicaid requires an FBI Livescan background check for all caregivers.
Step 3: Provide Work Authorization Documents
You must be legally authorized to work in the United States. FreedomCare will let you know exactly which documents to submit.
Step 4: Schedule Your Start of Care
Once all requirements are completed and approved, FreedomCare will schedule a Welcome Call with you and the patient to confirm your official start date.
FreedomCare guides both you and the patient step-by-step so you always know what to expect and what comes next.
In Nevada, caregivers are paid $16 per hour. The number of hours you are paid for is based on the patient’s approved plan of care, which is determined during their Medicaid assessment. The caregiver is paid for each hour of authorized care they provide, up to the total number of hours approved each week. FreedomCare ensures caregivers are paid on time and accurately for the care they deliver.
Working hours are based on the number of care hours the patient is approved for. In Nevada, the patient’s approved hours are determined by Medicaid or their Managed Care Organization (MCO) after a formal assessment of their daily needs. The caregiver is paid for the hours included in the patient’s plan of care. If the patient’s needs change over time, the care plan may be reviewed and adjusted through another assessment.
No, there is no minimum number of hours required to work as a caregiver in Nevada. You will work the number of hours the patient is approved for in their plan of care. Some patients receive only a few hours a week, while others may receive many more. The schedule is based entirely on the patient’s needs and what is approved by Medicaid or the MCO.
Caregivers in Nevada are paid on a regular weekly schedule. You can choose how you would like to receive your pay: direct deposit into your bank account, a mailed paper check, or a pay card provided at no cost. Once you select your preferred payment method, FreedomCare makes sure your payments are processed consistently and on time. If you ever need to update your payment information, we’re here to help.
Yes, FreedomCare provides overtime pay in Nevada. You may qualify for overtime if the patient is approved for more than 40 hours per week in their plan of care and you work over 40 hours in a given week. Overtime is only paid when both conditions are met. If the patient’s approved hours do not exceed 40 per week, overtime cannot be added. If you’re unsure how your patient’s hours are set up, we can review their plan of care with you.
Caregivers must have an active email address and a working smartphone to use the FreedomCare Plus app. The app is used to clock in and out, view schedules, and keep track of hours worked. This helps ensure accurate payment and makes communication simple. If you need help setting up the app, FreedomCare can assist you during the enrollment process.
Yes, you can be a caregiver for more than one patient in Nevada, as long as each patient is approved for services and you are enrolled as their caregiver. However, you cannot provide care to two patients at the same time. You must work your hours separately for each patient.
For example, if one patient is approved for 23 hours per week and another is approved for 20 hours per week, you may work up to 43 total hours, but you would clock in and out for each patient separately. All hours must reflect the actual time you are providing care to each person. FreedomCare will help you set up your schedule so your hours are recorded correctly.
You may get paid for overnight care, but only if it is specifically approved in the patient’s plan of care. In Nevada, a health plan or Medicaid must determine that overnight support is medically necessary. This usually requires a special review showing that the patient needs hands-on help during the night, not just someone present in the home.
If overnight care is not approved, you can still provide care during evening hours, such as 5 PM to 9 PM, as long as those hours are within the patient’s authorized care hours. If you believe overnight care may be needed, FreedomCare can help guide you through the request and review process.
Caregivers may receive the following benefits:
Eligibility for each benefit depends on hours worked and state requirements. If you want help understanding which benefits apply to you, we can walk you through the details.
No, FreedomCare does not reimburse travel expenses under this program in Nevada. Caregivers are paid for the approved care hours they provide, but transportation costs such as gas, mileage, or public transit are not covered. If you have questions about scheduling or how travel may fit into your care routine, we’re here to help.
Caregiver hours are flexible. In Nevada, the schedule can be arranged in a way that works best for both the caregiver and the person receiving care, as long as the total weekly hours stay within the amount approved in the plan of care. You and the person you care for can decide together what days and times work best for your routines and needs. If your needs change later, we can help you adjust the schedule.
If there’s ever an issue with your payment, contact the FreedomCare Care Support team. They can review your timesheets, payment method, and schedule to help identify and resolve the issue quickly. We’re here to make sure you are paid accurately and on time, so don’t hesitate to reach out if something doesn’t look right.
If a caregiver needs a day off or becomes sick, we encourage the patient to have a second caregiver enrolled who can step in and provide care. If you don’t currently have a second caregiver enrolled, we can help guide you through adding one.
For longer absences, contact FreedomCare so we can help explore alternative care options and make sure the patient continues to receive the support they need.
Yes, caregivers may be eligible for health insurance depending on the number of hours they work. In Nevada, eligibility is based on the caregiver’s weekly approved hours and other program requirements. If you qualify, FreedomCare will help you enroll and understand your coverage options. If you’re unsure whether your current schedule meets the eligibility threshold, we can review it with you.
Where can I find state labor law posters?
You can download a copy of Nevada’s state labor law posters here.
To download the FreedomCare Plus app, open the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and search for “FreedomCare Plus.” Tap to download and install the app. Once installed, open it, allow any requested permissions, and log in using the caregiver code and password provided during your welcome call. If you need help with your login, contact your Care Support team.
You can review your pay stubs directly in the FreedomCare Plus app by tapping the “My Payroll” button.
Please contact your Care Support team. They will investigate the issue and assist you in resolving it.
No, currently the app is the only method available for clocking in and out. Ensure the app is installed and functioning correctly on any phone or tablet, even if it’s not yours. Caregivers can retroactively confirm their visits up to 10 weeks.
For information about your insurance benefits, please contact our Caregiver Wellness Department. You can reach them by phone at 929-227-4392 or by email at [email protected]. They’ll be happy to review your benefits with you and answer any questions you may have.
If your patient is hospitalized or there is any change to their care routine, notify FreedomCare as soon as possible. Do not clock in or provide care during this time. Once the patient is discharged or the situation changes, we will help you understand the next steps and confirm when care can resume. Our team is here to support you and make sure everything is handled correctly with Medicaid and your plan of care.
FreedomCare is available in Nevada and in several other states across the country. Families can use FreedomCare in:
We continue to expand so more families can choose their caregiver and receive care at home. If your state is listed, you may be able to get paid to care for a family member depending on eligibility. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, we can help you understand the requirements and your next steps.
This program is funded through Nevada Medicaid, which is supported by both the state and federal government. Nevada Medicaid allocates funds to support individuals to receive care in their own home instead of in a nursing home or community facility. As a result, eligible individuals may choose a family member or friend to be their paid caregiver. If your loved one is enrolled in Medicaid in Nevada or may qualify, we can help you understand the requirements and guide you through the next steps.
Medicaid is funded by the State of Nevada and the federal government to assist people with limited income and resources get health coverage and may also help cover in-home caregiving support. Medicaid eligibility is determined by financial and medical need, and benefits are determined by Nevada Medicaid guidelines.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, or for younger individuals with certain disabilities. Medicare helps cover hospital care, doctor visits, and prescriptions, but it does not usually pay family members to provide daily hands-on care at home.
Some people in Nevada have both Medicare and Medicaid. When that happens, Medicaid may cover services that Medicare does not, including the option to choose a trusted family caregiver for in-home support.
In Nevada, if you have Medicaid or qualify for Medicaid and a doctor confirms that you need help with daily activities, you may be able to choose a family member or friend to be your paid caregiver through Nevada’s self-directed care options. The caregiver you choose will complete enrollment and basic training, and they are paid for the care they provide. You receive care at home from someone you know and trust, while Medicaid covers the cost. FreedomCare helps guide you through each step so the process feels simple, clear, and supportive.
Enroll now to have a family member or a trusted friend care for you in your home.
