Can I Get Paid to Take Care of My Mom Through Medicaid in PA?

The short answer is yes. If your mother is on Medicaid (or eligible for it) and needs help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, cooking, or getting around the house, Pennsylvania has programs that can pay you to provide that care.

You wouldn’t be volunteering. You’d be an employee — with a paycheck, tax withholdings, and workers’ compensation coverage.

The Program That Makes It Possible

Pennsylvania’s Community HealthChoices (CHC) program offers Participant-Directed Services. Your mother chooses you as her caregiver. You’re hired through the Agency with Choice employment model.

Does My Mom Qualify?

She likely qualifies if she’s enrolled in Medicaid (or eligible), requires nursing-facility level of care (regular help with daily activities), and is living at home. The “nursing-facility level of care” doesn’t mean bedridden — many people who need consistent help with bathing, medications, or balance qualify.

Do I Qualify as Her Caregiver?

As an adult child, you’re one of the most common relationships for this program. You need to be 18+, authorized to work in the U.S., and able to pass background checks. No nursing license or CNA required. You can live in the same house and hold another job.

How Much Would I Earn?

Generally $13.50 to $18.00 per hour, with 20–40+ hours per week depending on the care plan. Paid biweekly via direct deposit as a W-2 employee.

How to Get Started

Confirm Medicaid → Enroll in CHC → Request Participant-Directed Services → Complete Agency with Choice onboarding → Begin care. Total timeline: four to eight weeks.

Reach out to CareChoice → Contact our Pennsylvania team