Delaware runs real Medicaid programs that pay family members to care for a loved one at home. Here is what they pay, who can be paid, and how to start.
22% of the state
each with its own page
that can pay a relative
see the full rule below
Population figures from the U.S. Census Bureau · Rules from each state's published Medicaid program
$13–$21/hr
Your exact pay is set by the program and your care plan. We'll tell you your real number before you enroll.
Source: Delaware Medicaid program data · Updated September 2026
No waitlist. If you qualify, you're in.
no waitlist — DSHP-Plus is an entitlement (eligibility = enrollment)
Sometimes — it depends on the program and the care needed.
The fine print: limited — DSHP-Plus managed care policy bars people legally responsible for the member from serving as the paid attendant; confirm any spouse arrangement with the MCO
Yes — Delaware has a path for parents of children who need care.
The fine print: yes — parents/guardians can be paid for personal care up to 40 hrs/week under the demonstration waiver; another adult must sign timesheets/paperwork
Run by: Delaware Health & Social Services, Division of Medicaid & Medical Assistance (DMMA)
A program that can pay a family member for care at home.
2-min check →Our quick check tells you which programs fit your family before you talk to anyone.
Call the DMMA Central Intake Unit at 866-940-8963 to request an application; eligibility determination (financial + nursing-facility level of care) can take up to 3 months.
Forms, phone calls, the enrollment visit — we walk you through it all, free.
Yes. These are real Medicaid programs run by the state. In Delaware, they are overseen by the Delaware Health & Social Services. We help you enroll — applying costs you nothing.
Care at home costs Medicaid far less than a nursing home. So states pay family members to give that care at home. It's good for your loved one, and it's the law working the way it should.
Sometimes — it depends on the program and the care needed. The fine print: limited — DSHP-Plus managed care policy bars people legally responsible for the member from serving as the paid attendant; confirm any spouse arrangement with the MCO
Yes — Delaware has a path for parents of children who need care. The fine print: yes — parents/guardians can be paid for personal care up to 40 hrs/week under the demonstration waiver; another adult must sign timesheets/paperwork
Reported figures are around $13–$21/hr, but rates vary — the program sets your exact pay. We'll tell you your real number before you enroll.
No waitlist. If you qualify, you're in. Details: no waitlist — DSHP-Plus is an entitlement (eligibility = enrollment)
It depends on the program. In Delaware: self-directed through the member's managed care organization; a financial management services agency handles payroll/taxes/background checks
Sources: medicaidplanningassistance.org · kidswaivers.org · payingforseniorcare.com · Updated September 2026. Program rules change — always confirm with the program.
The programs are the same across Delaware. Pick your county to see how they work where you live.
Guides
Start with the Delaware caregiver program, then read how the pieces fit together.
Across the line
Each state writes its own rules, and they differ more than people expect — a spouse who can be paid on one side of the line often cannot be on the other.
Answer 5 easy questions. See your programs and pay before you share any contact info.