Family members often become caregivers without expecting payment or recognition; however, it's important to know that state and federal assistance programs exist that can offer you some relief. At Aidaly, we understand the financial and emotional toll caregiving can take and are dedicated to helping family caregivers access the programs they’re entitled to. 

Keep reading to discover which benefits and programs you may qualify for in Idaho. 

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Tax Benefits

Most people are taxpayers, so the government often gives financial assistance by helping out with taxes. However, unless you know what you're entitled to or work with someone who does, you may miss out. 

Idaho caregivers may be eligible for tax benefits that can save you money. Find out more about each one below.

The Child Tax Credit and the Tax Credit for Other Dependents

People who claim their children or other dependents on their federal tax return can receive up to $2,000 for each qualified dependent. These credits are fully refundable, which means you can get the money even if you owe no taxes. To receive one of these credits, you must meet certain income requirements. To learn more and discover if you are eligible, there is more information available here.

The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit

If you paid someone to care for your dependent while at work or looking for work, you could get money back even if you owed no taxes. Up to $8,000 of what you paid for daycare, day camps, babysitting, adult day programs, or caregiving while you were working or looking for work can be claimed. To assess your eligibility, click here.

Tax Deductions for Medical and Dental Expenses

You can deduct money from your taxable income and owe less on your taxes if you spent more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) on medical or dental expenses that weren't paid back by your insurance. You can count any money you spend on eligible expenses for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents. Your total medical and dental spending can add up quickly. You can read more here to see if your expenses meet the requirements. 

Medicaid and Other State Programs in Idaho

Around 392,000 Idahoans are enrolled in Medicaid. This can be a great option for accessing financial assistance. If your loved one meets certain criteria, they may be eligible for Medicaid Waivers or other Medicaid-associated programs.

Medicaid Waivers

Medicaid waivers allow Medicaid recipients to direct their Medicaid funding directly to caregiving family members rather than to Medicaid-approved agencies. In Idaho, the Home and Community-Based Services Aged and Disabled Waiver can finance care that takes place within an individual’s home in order to prevent nursing home placement. For more information about whether this waiver might apply to your circumstances, get in touch with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

The Idaho Certified Family Home Program 

Another option for Idahoans is to have their home classified as a Certified Family Home (CFH). This is a home that meets the criteria for providing care set by the state of Idaho and is certified by the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare. A CFH has the facilities to care for between one and four adult residents who cannot live on their own. Financial assistance is available for those providing care to the residents in the CFH. Find out more about certification here.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Some insurance policies that are classified as long-term care may allow patients to pay someone of their choosing to provide their care. Unfortunately, not all insurance providers offer this option. To assess whether your dependent’s plan qualifies, the medical insurance company should be contacted directly.

Veterans Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers assistance for eligible Veterans. The purpose of these programs is often based on preserving Veterans’ independence and allowing Veterans to determine who provides their care. Read more about special benefits for Idaho Veterans here.

Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) Program 

Veterans who require ongoing care can employ family members via the VDC program. Generally, someone employed via the VDC program will earn between $8 and $21 per hour. Veterans in Idaho who are eligible for community care, and who meet the clinical criteria for the service, are eligible for this program. More information about this program in Idaho may be found here.

Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

With the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, you can earn a monthly stipend of up to $2,750 per month as a family caregiver to a Veteran who has a service-related disability or illness. In addition, you can access training and counseling programs to support your caregiving services. Check to see if you’re eligible here. 

The Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefits and Housebound Allowance

The Aid and Attendance benefit and the Housebound Allowance both provide an allowance to qualifying Veterans with the aim of improving their day-to-day lives. The allowance is spent at the discretion of the Veteran, who can determine what would be most useful to them. Often, this allowance is used for care services which can be provided by family members. Read more about VA pensions here.

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We understand what an undertaking family caregiving can be, but you don't have to do it alone. If you qualify for Aidaly, we can help you access the benefits you’re entitled to and join our private, supportive community of fellow caregivers.