Every month, our team compiles the questions most asked by family and friend caregivers and families. This post brings together the answers to one of the most common ones recently (and often) encountered: “Do I qualify for Medicaid?”. For context, and the reason this question gets asked a lot is that, to qualify to be paid as family or friend caregiver through one of HCBS (Home and Community-Based Services) programs, the person receiving care must have Medicaid in Maryland, specifically full Medicaid. What that means in simple terms:

• If you have a red and white Medical Assistance card, that usually means full Medicaid.
• If you only have Medicare, that alone is not enough for the HCBS programs.
• Some people have Medicare with Medicaid as a supplement—but not all supplemental Medicaid plans work for HCBS.

How To Check Your Medicaid Type

We don’t have access to your personal Medicaid file, but you can check by:

• Contacting the Department of Social Services (DSS)
• Using the Maryland Access Point website or phone line

If you’re unsure, our team can guide you on what to ask and where to look.

How Do I Get Paid for the Care I Give?

Once you’re approved and enrolled in the program (where we also offer guidance):

• We explain everything by phone, step by step.
• You get support through the setup and training process.
• We check in with you regularly.
• Our team calls you every two weeks to help you with payroll, time sheets, and any questions you have.

You are never expected to “figure it out alone.” We walk you through it, again and again if needed.

What Confuses Most People (You’re Not Alone)

Many family and friend caregivers tell us they feel confused by:

1. Medicaid vs. Medicare

• Medicaid: Based mainly on income and financial need.
• Medicare: Usually for people 65+ or with certain disabilities.
• Only certain types of Medicaid work for caregiver payment programs.

2. Understanding the Program Itself

People often ask:

• What exactly is this program?
• Who decides if I’m approved?
• Who do I talk to at each step?

Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:

• Intake team: First contact, gathers basic information
• Financial eligibility: Checks Medicaid and income rules
• Nurse department: Assesses care needs
• Case manager: Helps coordinate services (not a doctor)

Different people handle different parts, which is why it can feel overwhelming at first.

How We Help

Our job is not just to process paperwork. It’s to:

• Help you understand what you qualify for
• Offer guidance on benefits you might not have known you qualify for
• Explain what each step means or requires
• Answer your questions in plain language
• Support you until you’re comfortable and confident

If you’re caring for a family member, friend, or neighbor, you’re already doing important work. We’re here to help you get recognized and supported for it.

If you’d like more details and guidance on enrolling in an HCBS program and getting paid to care for a loved one, we recommend you visit our Family and Friend Caregiver Services page.

How To Get Personalized Guidance

If you want personalized guidance on eligibility for payment and benefits as a family or friend caregiver, we invite you to connect with us. Our team is happy to learn about your specific situation and answer any questions you may have. To connect with us, you can:

• Request a callback by completing the contact form on our website or
• Call our main office line (410) 995-8092.