How much does a family caregiver make in Ohio? Understanding pay programs

As of September 2025, the average hourly pay for a professional caregiver in Ohio is around $14.77, though compensation for family caregivers can be structured differently through state programs. This guide explains how much does a family caregiver make in Ohio, detailing eligibility and payment structures for various state-supported programs designed to compensate relatives for the care they provide.

Quick Summary

Compensation for Ohio family caregivers varies based on the program, level of care, and location. Medicaid waivers like PASSPORT and MyCare Ohio offer payment options, typically excluding spouses. Factors such as a non-agency provider status, specialized training, and the care recipient's needs determine the final pay rate.

Key Points

• Medicaid Waivers are Key: The most direct way for family caregivers to get paid in Ohio is through Medicaid waiver programs like PASSPORT and MyCare Ohio.

• Spouses are Generally Excluded: Under Ohio's major Medicaid waiver programs for older adults, spouses cannot be hired as paid caregivers, though other relatives like adult children can.

• Compensation Varies by Program: Pay can be an hourly rate (e.g., PASSPORT) or a tax-free weekly/monthly stipend (e.g., Structured Family Caregiving via private agencies).

• Veterans have Specific Options: Caregivers of eligible veterans can receive monthly stipends and other benefits through VA programs like the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

• Eligibility Depends on Care Recipient: For Medicaid programs, the person needing care must first be eligible for Medicaid and meet a "nursing home level of care" to qualify.

• Pay is Influenced by Location and Care Needs: The specific hourly rate or stipend can be impacted by geographic location within Ohio and the complexity of the required caregiving duties.

• Formal Process is Required: Becoming a paid family caregiver involves a formal application and approval process with the appropriate state agency or program administrator.

How Family Caregivers Get Paid in Ohio

In Ohio, family members can receive payment for providing care through various state and federal programs. These programs allow eligible individuals to direct their care services and hire a relative, excluding spouses in many cases, to provide necessary support at home. Understanding the specific requirements and compensation models of each program is essential.

Ohio Medicaid Waiver Programs

Medicaid waivers are a primary way for family caregivers to receive compensation. They enable individuals who would otherwise need nursing home care to receive services at home or in the community. Key Ohio programs include PASSPORT and MyCare Ohio.

• PASSPORT Program: This program supports individuals aged 60 and older who need a nursing home level of care but wish to stay at home. It offers a consumer-directed option where the care recipient can choose and pay a non-spousal family member as their caregiver at a state-approved hourly rate.
• MyCare Ohio: This managed care program is for Ohio residents who qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare. It also allows for paid non-spousal family caregivers as part of a coordinated care plan.

Structured Family Caregiving (SFC)

Some private agencies in Ohio offer Structured Family Caregiving programs.

• Payment: These programs typically provide a tax-free weekly stipend instead of an hourly wage. Some SFC programs in Ohio can offer up to $1,800 monthly.
• Eligibility: Often administered through a Medicaid waiver, requiring the care recipient to meet the waiver's criteria.
• Support: Agencies administering SFC programs may provide additional support to caregivers.

Veterans' Benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides programs that can financially assist family caregivers of eligible veterans.

• Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC): Offers a monthly stipend to caregivers of veterans with serious injuries or illnesses incurred in the line of duty. The stipend amount is based on the veteran's needs.
• Veteran-Directed Care: This program provides veterans with a budget they can use to hire their own caregivers, including family members.

Pay Rates for Family Caregivers in Ohio

Compensation for family caregivers through state programs is set by program rules rather than market hourly rates. The final pay can be influenced by the specific program, geographic location, and the care recipient's needs.

Ohio Caregiver Compensation Comparison

Pay Source	Payment Model	Typical Rate	Spouse Eligibility	Notes
PASSPORT Program	Hourly	Varies by provider; typically around $13-$17/hour	No	For seniors 60+ who meet nursing home level of care.
Structured Family Caregiving (SFC)	Weekly Stipend	Up to ~$1,800/month or ~$420/week	No	Program is offered by private companies and requires enrollment through an agency.
MyCare Ohio	Hourly	Varies by provider	No	For dual-eligible (Medicaid/Medicare) individuals.
Veteran-Directed Care	Managed Budget	Varies by budget	Potentially; depends on program rules	Gives veterans control over funds to hire their own caregivers.
PCAFC	Monthly Stipend	$1,750 - $3,000+	Yes	For caregivers of seriously injured or ill veterans.

How to Become a Paid Family Caregiver in Ohio

Becoming a paid family caregiver involves a formal process, typically starting with the care recipient's eligibility. Key steps include:

1. Determine Eligibility: Verify that the person needing care qualifies for a program like a Medicaid waiver based on financial and functional assessments.
2. Apply for Programs: The care recipient applies for Medicaid and the appropriate waiver program.
3. Caregiver Selection: If using a consumer-directed option, the care recipient chooses an eligible family member (usually not a spouse).
4. Complete Requirements: The family caregiver must complete necessary paperwork and may need training or a background check.

Conclusion

While not automatic, becoming a paid family caregiver in Ohio is achievable through various state and federal programs. Medicaid waivers like PASSPORT and MyCare Ohio are common routes, alongside benefits for veterans. Compensation structures vary, including hourly rates and tax-free stipends. Eligibility criteria apply to both the caregiver and the care recipient. Families should consult with program administrators or case managers to explore their options and navigate the application process.

Important Resources

• Ohio Department of Aging: Information on caregiver support and state programs.
• Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): Local guidance on eligibility and services.
• Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program: Resources and stipends for veteran caregivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a spouse get paid to be a caregiver in Ohio?

No, under Ohio's primary Medicaid waiver programs like PASSPORT and MyCare Ohio, spouses are explicitly excluded from being paid caregivers for their partners. However, programs for veterans, such as the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, may offer financial support to spousal caregivers.

What is the average hourly rate for a family caregiver in Ohio?

The average hourly rate for a family caregiver in Ohio typically ranges from about $13 to $17, depending on the program, location, and specific care needs. Some programs, like Structured Family Caregiving, provide a tax-free weekly stipend instead of an hourly wage.

How does the Ohio PASSPORT program work for family caregivers?

The PASSPORT Program is a Medicaid waiver that allows qualifying Ohio seniors (60+) to hire a trusted non-spousal family member to provide in-home care. Once the senior is approved for the program, they can use a consumer-directed option to select and pay their caregiver at a state-contracted hourly rate.

What are the requirements for a family member to get paid through Medicaid in Ohio?

To get paid through a Medicaid waiver, the care recipient must be eligible for Medicaid and meet a specific level of need, often a "nursing home level of care". The family caregiver must be an adult relative (not a spouse) and will need to complete an application, pass a background check, and potentially undergo training.

Can I get a tax-free stipend for family caregiving in Ohio?

Yes, some programs in Ohio offer tax-free stipends for family caregivers, such as Structured Family Caregiving (SFC) programs offered by private companies like Momba Home Care. These programs provide a fixed weekly or monthly payment rather than an hourly wage.

Are there other options besides Medicaid for getting paid as a family caregiver?

Yes, beyond Medicaid waivers, other options for compensation include veterans' benefits for caregivers of eligible veterans, long-term care insurance policies that cover family caregivers, or employer-sponsored leave. Additionally, some Area Agencies on Aging or local non-Medicaid programs like the Elderly Services Program (ESP) may offer paid options for family members in specific counties.

What kind of care duties are covered by Ohio's paid family caregiver programs?

Paid programs typically cover a range of in-home care duties, including personal care (bathing, dressing), mobility assistance, meal preparation, homemaker services, medication management, and transportation. The specific services approved depend on the care recipient's assessed needs.