7 Key Government Assistance Programs for Family Caregivers in Arizona

Taking care of an aging, disabled, or chronically ill loved one in Arizona? Make sure you tap into these government assistance programs and resources available to support you as a family caregiver.

1. Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS)

Submit an application to enroll your loved one. If they qualify based on disability/age and income thresholds, Medicaid can cover in-home care, assisted living or nursing home costs. Call 1-888-621-6880 for details.

2. National Family Caregiver Support Program

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (find yours via n4a.org) to ask about accessing caregiver counseling, training, respite services, support groups and a personal caregiver assessment.

3. Home and Community Based Services (HCBS)

If your loved one is eligible for Medicaid, research applying for an HCBS waiver by calling 602-417-4000. These can fund modifications to make a home accessible, adult day care, home health aides and more.

4. Cash and Counseling Program

For low-income seniors or adults with disabilities needing long-term care, this program lets Medicaid funds go directly to you to pay relatives or neighbors to provide care. Call the AZ Cash and Counseling program at 602-771-6000.

5. Family Medical Leave Act

If employed, check whether your workplace offers FMLA-protected leave, which provides job security for up to 12 weeks per year while caregiving. Submit forms to your company’s HR department.

6. Social Security and Pensions

See if your loved one’s retirement benefits can be used for caregiver pay. Social Security’s Earned Income rules apply. Consult a local SSA officer or call 1-800-772-1213.

7. Tax Credits Claim

Eligible caregiving expenses when filing taxes to reap credits like the Child and Dependent Care Credit. Keep receipts and use IRS form 2441. Veterans caregivers also have new options. Make sure to check with your tax preparer to ensure all the information you need is up to date.

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Caring for an aging or disabled loved one is a meaningful yet challenging responsibility. Fortunately, Arizona aims to support family caregivers through programs that provide financial assistance, training resources, respite care, workplace protections and more.

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Key Takeaways:

• Tap into Medicaid programs if your loved one meets eligibility criteria. This can fund in-home care aides, adult day programs, assisted living facilities and other long-term support services.
• Local Area Agencies on Aging offer caregiver support programs and personal assessments to identify needs.
• Tax credits and Social Security rules provide opportunities to receive pay for providing care.
• Family Medical Leave Act protects jobs for working family caregivers.
• Build a support network by connecting to caregiver groups and respite care assistance.