How to Become a Paid Caregiver for a Family Member in New York

The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) is a New York Medicaid program that allows individuals who require assistance with daily activities to recruit and hire their own caregivers. This program offers flexibility and control, enabling recipients to choose caregivers they trust. One of the most significant advantages of CDPAP in New York is that it allows most family members to be compensated for the care they provide.

Under CDPAP, many people can be hired as a caregiver as long as they meet specific legal criteria. This includes:

• Family Members: Relatives such as adult children (21+), siblings, grandchildren, or cousins.
• Friends: Close friends or neighbors who are willing and able to provide personal assistance.
• Exclusions: By law, you cannot be a paid caregiver for your spouse. Additionally, parents cannot be paid caregivers for their children under the age of 21.

To ensure quality care and compliance with 2026 Medicaid regulations, specific requirements must be met by both the recipient and the caregiver.

• Medicaid Eligibility: The individual must be enrolled in New York Medicaid.

• Need for Assistance: They must demonstrate a need for personal assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, or mobility.

• Independent Assessment: Recipients must undergo an evaluation by the New York Independent Assessor (NYIAP) to determine the number of care hours needed.

• Self-Direction: Recipients must be able to direct their own care or have a “Designated Representative” (who cannot also be the paid caregiver) to do it for them.

• Physical & Background Checks: Caregivers must pass a pre-employment physical and provide proof of immunization (such as Rubella and Rubeola). Depending on current mandates, a background check is also required.

• Mandatory Training: As of 2026, all caregivers (Personal Assistants) must complete the required training through the Nevvon portal to remain compliant.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, here are the steps to begin receiving payment:

• Step 1: Apply for Medicaid: Ensure your loved one is enrolled in Medicaid. This involves submitting an application through your local Department of Social Services (DSS) or HRA.

• Step 2: Get an Independent Assessment: Your loved one must be assessed by NYIAP to verify their medical need for home care.

• Step 3: Register with the Statewide FI: As of 2026, all CDPAP payroll is handled by the Statewide Fiscal Intermediary, Public Partnerships LLC (PPL). You will need to register with them or an approved facilitator.

• Step 4: Complete Documentation: You must submit employment forms, including a W-4, I-9, and the required medical results.

• Step 5: Log Hours and Receive Payment: Once approved, you will use the designated timekeeping system (like the Time4Care app) to log your hours and receive weekly payments.

• Financial Support: It provides income for work that many family members are already doing for free.

• Personalized Care: Family members know the recipient’s routines and preferences better than anyone else.

• Comfort: Many seniors prefer receiving help from someone they know and love in the comfort of their own home.

In 2026, a family member can absolutely get paid to be a caregiver in New York through CDPAP—provided they are not a spouse or a parent of a minor. By following the updated assessment and registration steps, families can ensure their loved ones receive high-quality care while easing the financial burden on the caregiver.

If you’re ready to begin the application process or have questions about the 2026 Statewide FI transition, reach out today to start your journey!