Caring for a loved one is one of the most selfless acts a person can offer. But in Massachusetts, it can also be a rewarded and supported role, thanks to state-funded programs designed to help families care for aging parents, disabled adults, or medically complex individuals in the comfort of home.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most frequently asked questions about getting paid to be a family caregiver in Massachusetts, including how much you can earn, how to qualify, and what programs are available.
How Do You Get Paid for Family Caregiving in Massachusetts?
Family caregivers in Massachusetts can receive financial compensation through several state and federally supported programs. The most widely used is the Adult Foster Care (AFC) program, which is funded by MassHealth (Massachusetts Medicaid).
Here’s how it works:
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A family member or close friend becomes the designated caregiver.
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The person needing care must be 16 or older, enrolled in MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth, and require daily help with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL) — such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, or mobility.
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The caregiver and care recipient must live together in the same home.
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A licensed agency like A Better Life Homecare provides nurse oversight, case management, and caregiver support.
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The caregiver receives monthly tax-free payments, based on the level of care required.
Other programs include:
How Much Do Family Caregivers Make Per Hour in Massachusetts?
The compensation for family caregivers isn’t paid hourly like a job—it’s paid as a monthly, tax-free stipend through programs like AFC.
However, if broken down:
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Monthly stipends range from $1,000 to $1,600, depending on the level of care.
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This equates to roughly $8–$12 per hour, based on 24/7 availability and assistance.
While it may not match full-time employment wages, the stipend helps families offset financial burdens and allows their loved one to remain at home instead of entering a facility.
What Is the Family Caregiver Support Program in Massachusetts?
The Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) is a statewide initiative offered through the Executive Office of Elder Affairs and local Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs).
Key features:
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Offers information, training, and emotional support to unpaid family caregivers.
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Caregivers can receive help with respite care, assistive technology, and legal/financial guidance.
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It does not provide direct financial payments to caregivers, but it connects them with resources and referrals to programs like AFC.
How Much Is an Adult Family Care Stipend in Massachusetts?
Adult Foster Care (also called Adult Family Care) offers two levels of stipends:
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Level I: For individuals needing supervision or cueing for at least one ADL.
👉 Caregiver stipend: ~$1,000/month (tax-free) -
Level II: For individuals requiring hands-on physical assistance with at least two or more ADLs.
👉 Caregiver stipend: Up to $1,600/month (tax-free)
How Much Does Medicare Pay for Family Caregivers?
Unfortunately, Medicare does not directly pay family caregivers for providing personal or custodial care at home.
However, Medicare may cover:
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Home health care services (e.g., nursing, physical therapy) through a certified agency
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Medical equipment and some supplies
If you’re looking for financial compensation, you’ll need to explore MassHealth programs or Veterans Affairs benefits. Private long-term care insurance may also offer reimbursement for caregiver services.
What Is the Difference Between a Caregiver and a Caretaker?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences:
| Term | Common Usage |
|---|---|
| Caregiver | Typically refers to someone who assists with personal care, daily activities, and health monitoring. Often used in healthcare and family settings. |
| Caretaker | More commonly used for someone who maintains property or buildings (e.g., a groundskeeper). |
In Massachusetts caregiving programs, “caregiver” is the correct term for someone providing in-home assistance to a family member or friend.
How Do You Qualify for Home Health Care in Massachusetts?
To receive home health care through Medicare or MassHealth in Massachusetts, a person must:
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Be under the care of a primary care physician
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Have a medical condition that requires intermittent skilled care (e.g., nursing, therapy)
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Be homebound (i.e., leaving the home is a challenge due to their condition)
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Have a care plan certified by a doctor
For non-medical in-home care, such as help with bathing, dressing, or meal prep, families can enroll in the AFC program, GAFC, or explore private homecare services.
Final Thoughts: Support Is Available for Family Caregivers
Being a caregiver is both rewarding and demanding. Fortunately, programs like Adult Foster Care in Massachusetts provide the financial assistance, training, and support families need to care for loved ones without compromising their own stability.
At A Better Life Homecare, we help families like yours:
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Understand eligibility
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Complete applications
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Access caregiver training and nursing oversight
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Get paid for the care you’re already providing
Why Choose A Better Life Homecare?
At A Better Life Homecare, we specialize in supporting families through Massachusetts’ Adult Foster Care (AFC) and Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) programs. If you’re caring for a loved one at home, we can help you:
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Get paid up to $1,600 per month, tax-free as a family caregiver
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Access skilled nursing services and clinical oversight
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Receive ongoing support from a dedicated case manager and nurse
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Navigate the application process and determine eligibility
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Maintain the dignity and independence of your loved one — right at home
We’re committed to Supporting Families at Home, and we proudly serve caregivers and families across Massachusetts with compassion, professionalism, and culturally responsive care.
Contact A Better Life Homecare today to see if you or your loved one qualifies for the AFC or GAFC program, and start receiving the support you deserve.
