Financial Help and Grants Available for Family Caregivers

Caring for someone you love is an act of deep compassion. Whether you are supporting an aging parent, helping your spouse recover from illness, or standing by a family member with a disability, you give your time, energy, and heart every single day.

But as many caregivers know, the emotional rewards often come with financial challenges. You may have had to cut back your work hours or even leave a job entirely, and the bills can start to feel overwhelming.

The good news is that there are ways to get help. Programs, benefits, and community resources exist to give caregivers some financial breathing room. Here is how you can start finding the support you deserve.

1. See What Government Programs Can Offer
   

   Government programs can be a lifeline for family caregivers.

   Medicaid Self-Directed Care Programs

   In many states, Medicaid lets your loved one hire their own caregiver, who can be a family member. This means you may be paid for the care you already provide. Programs have different names, like Consumer Directed Care or Cash and Counseling, so check what is available in your state.

   VA Aid and Attendance and Caregiver Support

   If your loved one is a veteran, the Department of Veterans Affairs has generous caregiver support options, including monthly stipends, respite care, and training.

   Local Aging Services

   Your local Area Agency on Aging can connect you to caregiver grants, respite funding, and other forms of financial assistance.

2. Tap Into Nonprofit and Community Help
   

   Nonprofits often step in where other programs fall short.

   • Family Caregiver Alliance sometimes offers grants and can connect you with local aid.
   • Alzheimer’s Association has respite care funding for families supporting someone with dementia.
   • Condition Specific Foundations, like those for ALS, MS, or cancer, often provide financial help or direct support services.

   Do not overlook community groups, churches, or other local organizations. Many offer emergency funds or subsidized care.

3. Check Your Workplace Benefits
   

   If you are still working, your job might offer more help than you think.

   • Paid Family Leave is available in several states, letting you take paid time off to care for a loved one.
   • Flexible Hours or Remote Work can make balancing work and caregiving easier and can save you money.
   • Employee Assistance Programs often provide free counseling, legal help, or referrals to caregiving resources.
4. Take Advantage of Tax Breaks
   

   Caregiving can bring some tax relief.

   • Dependent Care Credit helps cover care expenses if your loved one is your dependent.
   • Medical Expense Deductions let you claim certain costs if you itemize your taxes.
   • Credit for Other Dependents can offer extra savings if your dependent does not qualify for the Child Tax Credit.
5. Use Online Tools to Make the Search Easier
   

   Finding the right program can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but these tools make it easier.

   • BenefitsCheckUp.org from the National Council on Aging finds programs in your area.
   • Eldercare.acl.gov connects you with local services and financial aid.
   • 211.org can guide you to community-based help in your area.
6. Keep Records and Plan Ahead
   

   When applying for financial help, you will often need medical records, proof of income, and receipts for caregiving expenses. Keeping everything organized makes the process smoother and helps ensure you get every benefit you qualify for.

   Remember: You are not alone in this. Financial help for caregivers is out there. By exploring these programs, leaning on nonprofits, checking your workplace benefits, and making use of tax breaks, you can lighten the financial load and focus on what matters most, caring for your loved one with love, patience, and peace of mind.