How much does a family caregiver make in Washington state?

As of September 2025, the average hourly pay for a professional caregiver in Washington is around $21.17, but a family caregiver's pay depends on specific state programs. Discover the key factors that determine how much does a family caregiver make in Washington state and how to access these vital resources.

Quick Summary

Washington offers specific programs, like Medicaid's Individual Provider and the upcoming WA Cares Fund, that enable family members to get paid for caregiving, with pay rates depending on the program, collective bargaining agreements, and recipient eligibility.

Key Points

• Compensation Programs: Family caregivers can be paid in Washington state through Medicaid's Individual Provider (IP) program or, starting in July 2026, the WA Cares Fund.

• Wage Range: Pay for Individual Providers is determined by a union agreement, often around $16-$16.25/hour starting wage, with the average caregiver wage in the state being higher.

• Spousal Care: The Medicaid IP program typically excludes spouses from being paid, but the new WA Cares Fund will allow spousal caregivers to receive compensation.

• Eligibility Requirements: To be a paid caregiver through DSHS, the care recipient must be on Medicaid, and the caregiver must be over 18, pass a background check, and complete required training.

• Benefits and Support: Paid IPs often receive benefits like health insurance through their union, and all caregivers can access support resources through local Family Caregiver Support Program offices.

• Certification: Paid caregivers must become certified Home Care Aides within a specific timeframe after starting work, which includes state-required training and an exam.

Understanding Paid Family Caregiving in Washington State

Becoming a paid family caregiver in Washington is a structured process, primarily involving state-funded programs like Medicaid. Unlike simply receiving payment from a family member, the most reliable and regulated pathways are through the state's Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). These programs provide an opportunity for family members to be compensated for their tireless work, recognizing the immense value they provide.

The Role of State-Sponsored Programs

In Washington, family members can get paid for caregiving through Medicaid's Individual Provider (IP) program. The person receiving care must be eligible for Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) and require in-home care services. Under this system, the care recipient becomes an employer of sorts, hiring their family member as their Individual Provider, with the Consumer Direct Care Network of Washington (CDWA) handling the administrative aspects. A key consideration for this program is that an IP generally cannot be the spouse of the care recipient, although this may change with other upcoming programs.

The WA Cares Fund and Future Compensation

Beginning in July 2026, Washington's new WA Cares Fund will offer another avenue for paid family caregiving. This program is funded through a payroll tax and provides a lifetime benefit to eligible Washingtonians to cover long-term care needs. A significant feature of WA Cares is that it explicitly allows eligible family members, including spouses, to be paid for their caregiving services. This represents a major shift from previous regulations and expands the financial support available to families.

Typical Pay Rates and Collective Bargaining

Individual Provider wages are set through a collective bargaining agreement between DSHS and the SEIU 775 union, which represents IPs. While exact rates can change, they are often competitive with or higher than typical agency caregiver starting wages. For example, in 2025, starting wages for an IP were around $16.00-$16.25 per hour, with the overall state average for caregivers often being higher, around $21.11 per hour. Compensation can vary based on experience, location, and the specific needs of the care recipient. For example, salaries in major metro areas like Seattle might be slightly higher to account for a higher cost of living.

How to Get Paid: The Process

To become a paid family caregiver, the process starts with the care recipient applying for Medicaid and undergoing an assessment by DSHS to determine their level of need.

1. Care Recipient Eligibility: The individual needing care must qualify for Medicaid long-term care services.
2. DSHS Assessment: An assessment will be conducted to determine the number of care hours authorized per month.
3. Caregiver Application: The family member must apply to become an Individual Provider through the Consumer Direct Care Network of Washington (CDWA).
4. Training and Certification: The IP must complete required training and pass a background check. Note that IPs are represented by SEIU 775, and union training is available after hiring.
5. Payment Authorization: Once approved, the care recipient can authorize hours for their family member to be paid for their care services.

Financial Comparisons: State Programs vs. Private Pay

To understand the full financial landscape, it's helpful to compare the state-sponsored payment model with private pay arrangements. While some families choose to pay a caregiver directly, this comes with challenges and legal considerations that state programs mitigate.

Feature	State-Sponsored (Medicaid/IP)	Private Pay Arrangement
Compensation	Regulated hourly wage set by union agreement.	Negotiated hourly or daily rate, potentially inconsistent.
Taxes & Withholding	CDWA handles taxes and withholdings as the official employer.	Family is responsible for managing payroll, taxes, and Social Security for the caregiver.
Benefits	IPs receive benefits including health insurance through the union.	No formal benefits unless the family offers them.
Training	State-mandated training and certification provided/funded.	Family is responsible for ensuring caregiver training.
Legal Protection	Both caregiver and recipient are protected by labor laws and state regulations.	Greater legal exposure for the family if labor laws are not followed.
Scope of Care	Defined by DSHS assessment; must be within state guidelines.	Can be more flexible, but with less oversight.

For most families, navigating the state-sponsored route offers greater security and ensures proper compensation and benefits for the caregiver.

The Importance of Resources and Support

Becoming a paid family caregiver can be emotionally and physically demanding, and financial compensation is only one part of the picture. Washington provides a variety of resources to support caregivers, such as the local Family Caregiver Support Program offices, which offer counseling, training, and respite care services. It is crucial to utilize these resources to maintain well-being while providing care. The WA Cares Fund also expands support, offering services beyond just direct payment. For more in-depth information and resources on long-term care programs in Washington, visit the official Department of Social and Health Services website at dshs.wa.gov.

Conclusion

The compensation for a family caregiver in Washington state is not a simple fixed number but is determined by participation in state-funded programs like the Individual Provider program and, from 2026, the WA Cares Fund. By navigating the eligibility and application processes, family members can receive a regulated, fair hourly wage for their care. Understanding the distinct differences between state-sponsored and private pay models, and leveraging the extensive support resources available, can ensure both the caregiver and the care recipient receive the best possible support and financial recognition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be a paid caregiver for my spouse in Washington state?

Under the existing Medicaid Individual Provider program, a spouse generally cannot be hired as a paid caregiver for their partner. However, this is set to change with the WA Cares Fund, which, as of July 2026, will allow spouses to be compensated for their caregiving services.

What is the WA Cares Fund and how does it affect family caregiver pay?

The WA Cares Fund is a statewide long-term care insurance program funded by a payroll tax. Starting July 2026, if the care recipient has contributed to the fund and is eligible for benefits, they can use their benefit amount to pay a family caregiver, including their spouse.

How do I start the process to become a paid family caregiver through Medicaid?

The process begins with the care recipient applying for Washington Apple Health (Medicaid). DSHS will then conduct an assessment to determine eligibility and authorized care hours. The family member must then apply to become an Individual Provider through the Consumer Direct Care Network of Washington (CDWA).

Are there training requirements for paid family caregivers in Washington?

Yes. As a paid caregiver, you must complete state-required training and eventually become a certified Home Care Aide (HCA). If you become an Individual Provider, training is often provided through the SEIU 775 union after hiring.

Do I have to pay taxes on my family caregiver wages?

Yes, wages received as a paid family caregiver are typically subject to taxes. If you are an Individual Provider through CDWA, they will handle tax withholdings. In a private pay arrangement, the family is responsible for managing payroll and taxes.

What happens if my family member does not qualify for Medicaid?

If your family member does not qualify for Medicaid, you would not be able to become a paid Individual Provider through the state. However, other options might include veteran's benefits, long-term care insurance, or a private pay arrangement.

What support is available for unpaid family caregivers in Washington?

Unpaid family caregivers can receive assistance through the Family Caregiver Support Program, which offers services like counseling, support groups, training, and respite care. You can find local program offices throughout the state.