Family caregivers

Getting paid to care for a family member in Florida

Yes, Florida has real paths to this, but each is tied to a specific program, and your loved one has to be approved for that program first. Here is which one fits.

Published by Aster Care LLC · Last updated November 1, 2026 · Sources listed below

The short answer

Florida has no general program that pays family caregivers. A relative can be paid when the person they care for is in a program that allows it: the Participant Direction Option under Medicaid Long-Term Care, CDC+ under the iBudget waiver, the Family Home Health Aide program for medically fragile children, or Veteran-Directed Care through the VA.

Which path fits

Your loved oneProgramWho employs youRead
An adult on Medicaid Long-Term Care, at homeParticipant Direction Option (PDO)Your loved one or their representative hires you; the plan paysPDO guide
A person on the iBudget waiverConsumer-Directed Care Plus (CDC+), or relative providers for certain servicesThe participant under CDC+; a provider agency or your own enrollment otherwiseCDC+ guide
A medically fragile child under 21, eligible for private duty nursingFamily Home Health Aide (FHHA)A licensed home health agencyFHHA guide
A veteran enrolled in VA health careVeteran-Directed CareThe veteran, with a set budgetSee our guide

Three things to know first

  • The person needing care has to qualify first. Being a devoted relative does not by itself create a paid job. The person must be approved for the program.
  • Screening applies. Each program requires a Level 2 background screening with fingerprints for paid workers, including family.
  • Earnings can affect benefits. AHCA warns that FHHA wages count as earned income for Medicaid. Check before you start.

Thinking of working as a caregiver?

Here is how a family member becomes a direct service worker, step by step.

About this page. Aster Care LLC is a private home care agency, not a government agency. Eligibility decisions are made by the state offices named here. This is general information, not legal or benefits advice, and program rules change, so please confirm details with those offices.

Questions families ask

Can a spouse be paid?

It depends on the program. Florida's consumer-directed care law says CDC+ providers may include a spouse, while the regular iBudget waiver excludes spouses and parents of minors from payment. Ask your case manager or the CDC+ helpline at 1-866-761-7043 about your situation.

How much does it pay?

There is no single rate. Under PDO the plan tells you the rate. Under FHHA, Medicaid pays the agency at least $25 an hour and your wage is negotiated with the agency.