New York

Get Paid as a Family Caregiver in New York

New York has real Medicaid programs that pay family members to care for a loved one at home. Here's what they pay, who can be paid, and how to start.

What New York pays family caregivers

$18.65–$20.65/hr

Source: New York Medicaid program data · Updated September 2026

Waitlist in New York

No waitlist. If you qualify, you're in.

no waitlist — CFCO/CDPAP is an entitlement; new 'Minimum Needs' eligibility requirements for most new adult applicants since Sept 2025

The two big questions

Can a spouse be paid?

Not right now

Not right now — but other family members can often be paid.

The fine print: no — spouses cannot be hired as CDPAP personal assistants

Can a parent be paid for a child?

Not right now

Not for young children right now — but parents of adult children can often be paid.

The fine print: no — parents cannot be paid caregivers for their own children under 21 (they can be paid for adult children 21+)

New York's programs

Run by: New York State Department of Health

CDPAP

A program that can pay a family member for care at home.

2-min check →

How to apply in New York

  1. Check your match — 2 minutes, free.

    Our quick check tells you which programs fit your family before you talk to anyone.

  2. Start the state application.

    Apply through the county Department of Social Services (or Medicaid Helpline); enrolled members go through their care manager/MLTC plan, then consumer and caregiver register with PPL.

  3. We help at every step.

    Forms, phone calls, the enrollment visit — we walk you through it all, free.

See if you qualify →

New York questions, answered honestly

Is this legit?

Yes. These are real Medicaid programs run by the state. In New York, they are overseen by the New York State Department of Health. We help you enroll — applying costs you nothing.

Why would the government pay me?

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.

Can I get paid to care for my spouse in New York?

Not right now — but other family members can often be paid. The fine print: no — spouses cannot be hired as CDPAP personal assistants

Can I get paid to care for my child in New York?

Not for young children right now — but parents of adult children can often be paid. The fine print: no — parents cannot be paid caregivers for their own children under 21 (they can be paid for adult children 21+)

How much do family caregivers get paid in New York?

Family caregivers here typically earn $18.65–$20.65/hr.

Is there a waitlist?

No waitlist. If you qualify, you're in. Details: no waitlist — CFCO/CDPAP is an entitlement; new 'Minimum Needs' eligibility requirements for most new adult applicants since Sept 2025

Do I have to work for an agency?

It depends on the program. In New York: self-directed (consumer recruits, hires, trains), but since 4/1/2025 every consumer and PA must register with PPL (Public Partnerships LLC), the single statewide fiscal intermediary that runs payroll

Sources: medicaidplanningassistance.org · pplfirst.com · health.ny.gov · Updated September 2026. Program rules change — always confirm with the program.

Find out in 2 minutes

Answer 5 easy questions. See your programs and pay before you share any contact info.

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