If you want to care for your loved one at home and receive payment through Medicaid, this page explains the complete Family Caregiver Application Process step by step. Our team supports patients and families throughout PCA and OPWDD enrollment, helping you understand what is required and guiding you through each stage until care officially begins.
New York offers several Medicaid-funded programs that allow eligible family members to provide care for a loved one who needs assistance with daily living. The Personal Care Assistant (PCA) program and the OPWDD waiver program for developmental disabilities are the most common paths for families seeking paid caregiving support.
These programs are part of New York’s long-term care system. They are designed to help individuals who need assistance with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, mobility, and other essential home activities.
How the Application Process Works
Step 1. Check Eligibility
Begin by completing our eligibility form. A team member reviews the information and lets you know whether your family qualifies for PCA or OPWDD services.
Step 2. Apply for Medicaid if Needed
If your loved one does not yet have active Medicaid, we guide them through the steps required to enroll. Medicaid eligibility is necessary for PCA and OPWDD services.
Step 3. Home Care Assessment
A nurse evaluator meets with your loved one either at home or through telehealth. The nurse determines the level of care needed and the number of hours that may be approved.
Step 4. PCA Certification for the Caregiver
If an eligible family member can provide care, we assist with completing a free same-day PCA certification. No prior experience is required.
Step 5. Begin Care and Receive Payment
After the assessment and approvals are complete, care can begin. The caregiver assists with daily living tasks, and payment is issued through the approved Medicaid program.
Who Can Be a Paid Family Caregiver Under PCA?
Eligible relatives may include:
• Brothers or sisters
• Grandchildren
• Cousins
• Nieces or nephews
• Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law
• Close family friends
Per New York State rules, the following individuals cannot be paid caregivers under PCA:
• Spouses
• Sons or daughters
• Sons-in-law or daughters-in-law
• Legal guardians
If you are not eligible to be the caregiver, we can help another qualified family member complete the process.
OPWDD Program Option
If your loved one has a developmental disability and qualifies for OPWDD services, the OPWDD waiver may allow additional caregiver options. Most relatives can serve as caregivers under OPWDD, except parents and legal guardians.
Our team assists families in understanding whether PCA, OPWDD, or both programs apply based on the individual’s needs and diagnosis.
Start the Family Caregiver Application Process
The first step is completing our short eligibility form. Once submitted, we contact you, explain your program options, and guide you through Medicaid enrollment, certification, assessments, and onboarding.
Begin here:
Check Your Eligibility
We are here to help you care for the person you love while navigating New York’s Medicaid programs with confidence and support.