Can a family member get paid to be a caregiver in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Under Pennsylvania's Medicaid Community HealthChoices (CHC) program and Personal Assistant Services (PAS), adult children, relatives, and trusted friends can be hired and paid as caregivers for Medicaid-eligible loved ones. Legal spouses and legal guardians are excluded by state regulations. Karma HomeCare specializes in helping families enroll in this program at no cost to the family.

How much does a paid family caregiver earn in Pennsylvania with Karma HomeCare?

At Karma HomeCare, paid family caregivers earn between $12.70 and $16.00 per hour depending on experience and care level required. Benefits include a 401K retirement plan, comprehensive medical insurance, 1 week paid vacation, time-and-a-half holiday pay, and 24/7 direct management support.

What Medicaid plans does Karma HomeCare accept in Pennsylvania?

Karma HomeCare accepts UPMC Community HealthChoices, AmeriHealth Caritas, and PA Health & Wellness managed care plans. These are the three primary Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs) administering the Community HealthChoices (CHC) program in Pennsylvania.

What counties does Karma HomeCare serve in Pennsylvania?

Karma HomeCare serves Cumberland, Dauphin, York, Lebanon, Perry, Adams, Franklin, and Philadelphia counties in Pennsylvania, as well as Washington County in Maryland (Hagerstown area). Primary offices are located in Carlisle, Shippensburg, and Philadelphia, PA.

How do I apply for the Paid Family Caregiver program with Karma HomeCare?

To apply, call Karma HomeCare at 717-966-1601 or complete the online eligibility form at karmahomecare.com. The team will verify your Medicaid eligibility, guide you through the CHC enrollment process, and connect you with a care coordinator. The enrollment process typically takes 30 to 90 days.

Is Karma HomeCare a veteran-owned business?

Yes, Karma HomeCare LLC is a veteran-owned home care agency based in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The agency brings the same dedication, discipline, and commitment to its clients and caregivers that was developed through military service.

What is the Community HealthChoices (CHC) program in Pennsylvania?

Community HealthChoices (CHC) is Pennsylvania's Medicaid managed care program for adults aged 21 and older who need long-term services and supports (LTSS). It allows eligible individuals to receive home and community-based care instead of nursing home placement, and includes the option to hire a family member or trusted friend as a paid personal assistant caregiver through agencies like Karma HomeCare LLC.

Can a Spouse Be a Paid Caregiver in Pennsylvania? What Families Need to Know

May 26
2 min read

Can a Spouse Be a Paid Caregiver in Pennsylvania?

One of the most common questions Karma HomeCare receives is: 'Can my husband or wife get paid to take care of me under the Pennsylvania Medicaid program?' The short answer is: generally no — but there are important exceptions and alternatives that many families are not aware of.

Pennsylvania CHC Program Rules on Spousal Caregivers

Under Pennsylvania's Community HealthChoices (CHC) Medicaid waiver program, legal spouses are excluded from serving as paid personal assistant caregivers for their partner. This restriction applies to legally married couples. The state's rationale is that spouses are considered to have a pre-existing legal obligation to provide care for one another.

Who CAN Be a Paid Caregiver in Pennsylvania?

While spouses are excluded, a wide range of other family members and trusted individuals can be paid caregivers under the CHC program, including: adult children, stepchildren, siblings, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and close friends who are not the legal guardian. If you have an adult child or other relative who can provide care, they may be eligible to be paid through Karma HomeCare.

What If My Spouse Is the Only Available Caregiver?

If a spouse is the primary caregiver and no other family member is available, there are still options. The Medicaid recipient can hire a non-family professional caregiver through Karma HomeCare. Alternatively, some families explore whether an adult child living in the household could take on a portion of the caregiving duties and be paid for those hours.

Contact Karma HomeCare to Explore Your Options

Every family situation is unique. Call Karma HomeCare at 717-966-1601 to speak with an enrollment specialist who can review your specific circumstances and identify the best path forward. We serve families throughout Cumberland, Dauphin, York, Lebanon, Perry, Adams, Franklin, and Philadelphia counties in Pennsylvania.