How you'll help
Paid family caregivers support a loved one with essential daily care--helping them stay safe and live with dignity at home
- Daily living support – Assists with meals, bathing, dressing, or getting around
- Health reminders – Help with medications, appointments, and monitoring changes
- Emotional support – Offer companionship, patience, and encouragement
Caring for my dad became more manageable once I got the right training and support. I’m still his daughter — but I feel more prepared now.”
Where you'll work
As a paid family caregiver, your workplace is your loved one’s home — whether that’s a private house, an apartment, or shared family housing.
This role might be right for you if...
You’re already caring for a loved one or wondering if you can be paid to care for a family member. You’re compassionate, responsible, and willing to learn the skills that help keep your family member safe and supported.
How to become a paid family caregiver
Your family member applies for services
Your family member who is in need of care would need to be found financially and functionally eligible for Apple Health (Medicaid) Long-Term Services and Supports for you to be able to be paid as their caregiver.
For information about the application process, eligibility criteria, and services available review this booklet on Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports for Adults.
To get started, your family member can either:
· Apply for Long Term Services and Supports online through the Washington Connection portal.
· Contact their local DSHS Home & Community Services office.
Apply to get paid for your caregiving
To get paid as a family caregiver in Washington state, you would apply to become an Individual Provider. This process involves completing an application and getting hired by an employer called Consumer Direct Care Network Washington.
First, learn more about the hiring process by checking out these hiring resources from CDWA.
When you’re ready to apply, go to the CDWA’s application portal to submit your application.
Complete your training
As a paid family caregiver, you will typically need to complete 35 hours of training. You will receive information on how to register for your required training after you apply with CDWA.
You will complete the 5 hour Orientation & Safety Training as part of your hiring tasks with CDWA.
You will receive instructions on registering for the 30 hour basic training provided by SEIU775 Benefits Group after you are approved to start working with CDWA.
Get help from a Navigator
Have questions? Not sure what's next? Our Navigators can provide guidance and support as you go through the process of becoming a paid family caregiver.
Common Questions
- Can I be a paid family caregiver for my child or spouse?
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Parents of children under 18 years old cannot be their child’s paid caregiver through DSHS services. For more information on services that may be available for your child see Developmental Disabilities Administration | DSHS
A spouse cannot be a paid caregiver for a spouse under Apple Health Long-Term Services and Support. They may be able to be a paid caregiver through the Veteran Directed Care or WACARES. - Who is considered to be a family member?
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According to WAC 388-71-0503, family member includes, but is not limited to a parent, child, sibling, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, cousin, grandparent, grandchild, grandniece, grandnephew, or such relatives when related by marriage.
- How much do paid family caregivers get paid?
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The current starting pay for Individual Providers is $22.52 per hour.