Benefits Navigator

Government Benefits for Caregivers

Find programs that can help cover costs, provide respite, and support you and your aging parent.

Federal Programs

Medicare

Federal health insurance for people 65+ or with certain disabilities.

Eligibility

Age 65+ or qualifying disability. Must be a US citizen or permanent resident for 5+ years.

How to Apply

Apply online at ssa.gov, call 1-800-772-1213, or visit local Social Security office.

Medicaid

Joint federal-state program providing health coverage for low-income individuals.

Eligibility

Income and asset limits vary by state. Generally for individuals with limited resources.

How to Apply

Apply through your state Medicaid office or healthcare.gov.

FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act)

Up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for family caregiving.

Eligibility

Worked for employer 12+ months, 1,250+ hours. Employer must have 50+ employees.

How to Apply

Request through your employer's HR department. Provide medical certification.

VA Aid & Attendance

Monthly pension supplement for veterans or surviving spouses needing assistance with daily activities.

Eligibility

Veteran with 90+ days active service (1 day during wartime). Need help with daily activities.

How to Apply

Apply through VA.gov or with help from a VA-accredited claims agent.

National Family Caregiver Support Program

Provides grants to states for caregiver support services including respite care, counseling, and training.

Eligibility

Family caregivers of persons 60+. Grandparents raising grandchildren.

How to Apply

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Call Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116.

SNAP (Food Stamps)

Supplemental nutrition assistance for low-income individuals and families.

Eligibility

Based on household income and size. Asset limits apply in some states.

How to Apply

Apply through your state SNAP office or online at fns.usda.gov.

Caregiver Tax Credit

Tax deductions for medical expenses and dependent care that exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income.

Eligibility

Must provide more than 50% of the dependent's support. Qualifying medical expenses.

How to Apply

Claim on federal tax return (Schedule A). Consult a tax professional.

State & Local Programs

Respite Care Programs

Temporary relief for primary caregivers. May include in-home care, adult day programs, or short-term facility stays.

How to Apply

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging. Many states have specific respite care programs.

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