Maryland 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.
18% 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
$16–$20/hr
Your exact pay is set by the program and your care plan. We'll tell you your real number before you enroll.
Source: Maryland Medicaid program data · Updated September 2026
No waitlist. If you qualify, you're in.
CFC and CPAS are entitlements — no waitlist; Community Options Waiver has a large registry (~20,616 people as of early 2026, ~700 invited/month)
Sometimes — it depends on the program and the care needed.
The fine print: limited — COMAR 10.09.84 bars only the participant's representative from being the paid worker, but an older state memo also barred spouses; confirm with the CFC/CPAS supports planner
Sometimes — special programs for children may pay parents.
The fine print: limited — not via CFC (guardian/representative bar); DDA Community Pathways Waiver pays legally responsible parents up to 40 hrs/wk, and the Autism Waiver reimburses extraordinary care
Run by: Maryland Dept. of Health — Office of Long Term Services and Supports, CFC 410-767-1739
A program that can pay a family member for care at home.
2-min check →A program that can pay a family member for care at home.
2-min check →A program that can pay a family member for care at home.
2-min check →A path for children who need extra care.
2-min check →Our quick check tells you which programs fit your family before you talk to anyone.
Call the CFC program (410-767-1739) or MAP (844-627-5465) / visit a local MAP office to start eligibility screening; processing takes 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 Maryland, they are overseen by the Maryland Dept. of Health — Office of Long Term Services and Supports. 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 — COMAR 10.09.84 bars only the participant's representative from being the paid worker, but an older state memo also barred spouses; confirm with the CFC/CPAS supports planner
Sometimes — special programs for children may pay parents. The fine print: limited — not via CFC (guardian/representative bar); DDA Community Pathways Waiver pays legally responsible parents up to 40 hrs/wk, and the Autism Waiver reimburses extraordinary care
Reported figures are around $16–$20/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: CFC and CPAS are entitlements — no waitlist; Community Options Waiver has a large registry (~20,616 people as of early 2026, ~700 invited/month)
It depends on the program. In Maryland: caregiver enrolls through a Medicaid personal assistance agency and a fiscal intermediary handles payroll/taxes; participant still selects and directs the caregiver
Sources: medicaidplanningassistance.org · health.maryland.gov · medicaidplanningassistance.org · Updated September 2026. Program rules change — always confirm with the program.
The programs are the same across Maryland. Pick your county to see how they work where you live.
Guides
Start with the Maryland 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.