In Hawaii, there are an estimated 157,000 unpaid family caregivers. Although caring for a loved one is an incredibly rewarding role, the investment of time and money can cause a emotional and financial strain. The Legislature of the State of Hawaii found that family caregivers provide free services with an estimated value of $196 million. 

Read on to discover which compensation options you may qualify for as a family caregiver in Hawaii. 

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Tax Benefits in Hawaii

It’s no secret that taxes can be costly. Family caregivers can receive tax benefits to relieve the financial burden that comes with providing in-home care.

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 Credits- Federal and Hawaiian

If you paid someone to care for your loved one 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 when you submit federal taxes. Hawaii also offers a credit to state taxpayers worth up to $4,800. Find out more about the federal credit here, and learn about the Hawaiian credit here.

Medical and Dental Expenses Tax Deductions

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 deduct that money from your taxable income and owe less on your taxes. You can count any money you spend on eligible expenses for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents so your total can add up quickly. There are no income restrictions for this program, and you can read more here to learn about eligible expenses.

Medicaid and Other State Programs

Med-QUEST, the Medicaid program for Hawaii, offers health insurance and other support for over 409,000 state residents. Med-QUEST covers people of all ages with a variety of needs, including people who are elderly, people with disabilities, and people with chronic health needs. Contact the Hawaii Aging and Disability Resource Center here for more information on Med-QUEST and application. Other support services are available through the Department of Human Services, so make sure to check out their programs.

Kupuna Caregivers Program

The Kupuna Caregivers Program (also known as the Kupuna Caregiver Law) supports employed Hawaii residents who provide unpaid primary caregiver support to a senior relative. It offers up to $350 per week (or $70 per working day) to caregivers for the cost of long-term senior care services, including adult day care, respite care, and in-home personal assistance. The Kupuna Caregivers Program is managed by Hawaii’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, so make sure to contact them to learn more.

Veterans Benefits in Hawaii

In exchange for the service and sacrifices they’ve given their country, Veterans are entitled to many benefits which can offer support to their caregivers. Most programs are offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs, while the State of Hawaii offers several other benefits and programs to help Veterans. 

Veteran-Directed Care (VDC) Program

Through the Veteran-Directed Care program, Veterans are able to redirect their monthly care budget towards a family member who is “hired” as a caregiver. This means the family caregiver is paid an hourly rate, generally between $8 and $21 per hour. Veterans of all ages who require assistance with daily living are entitled to the VDC. Learn more about applying for the VDC here.

Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefits and Housebound Allowance

The Veterans Aid and Attendance benefits and the Housebound Allowance are two special pension enhancements available for Veterans who need help with daily living tasks. Veterans can spend their pensions however they’d like, including paying caregivers or purchasing supplies and equipment. Read more about qualifying 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.