Paid.Care

View Original

Understanding the State of Michigan Home Help Program

A comprehensive guide to understanding the Michigan Home Help Program, including eligibility requirements and how to apply to become a caregiver for a family member.

Overview of the Michigan Home Help Program

The Michigan Home Help Program is designed to provide assistance and support to individuals who require care in their own homes. This program allows family members to become paid caregivers, ensuring that their loved ones receive the necessary care while also providing financial assistance to the caregivers.

To be eligible for the Michigan Home Help Program, applicants must meet certain criteria. They must be at least 18 years old and capable of providing the required care. Additionally, individuals with certain criminal records may be disqualified. It is important to note that legal spouses of the patient and parents of a patient under 18 cannot be paid caregivers.

To apply for the Home Help Program, caregivers must fill out the required forms to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). A home care agency like Paid.care can help with the submission and registration.

It is important to expect the application process to take time, as MDHHS allows adult services workers 45 days to make an eligibility determination. Once the application is submitted, the patient's financial eligibility for Michigan Medicaid will be assessed, and various forms must be completed by both the caregiver and the individual needing help. The patient's doctor will also need to sign a form showing the need for care.

Once the caregiver is approved, they must also get registered in the State of Michigan's CHAMPS system in order to receive payment for their caregiving services. The caregiver will be assessed by a DHS case worker to determine the extent of care they will be paid for.

Eligibility Requirements for Caregivers

Reminder that in order to be eligible to become a caregiver under the Michigan Home Help Program, applicants must meet certain requirements including:

  • Michigan Family Caregiver Age

    • They must be at least 18 years old and capable of providing the necessary care.

  • Pass Background Check

    • While individuals with criminal records can still be paid caregivers, certain crimes may disqualify them.

  • Spouses Are Not Eligible For Payment

    • It is important to note that legal spouses of the patient are not eligible to be paid under the Home Help Program.

  • Some Parents Are Not Eligible For Payment

    • Parents of a patient under 18 cannot be paid caregivers.

  • CHAMPS Registration

Application Process for the Michigan Home Help Program

The application process for the Michigan Home Help Program involves submitting the required forms to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). It is important to note that the application process may take time, as MDHHS allows adult services workers 45 days to make an eligibility determination.

To apply, caregivers must complete various forms and provide necessary documentation, including:

  • Medical Needs Form

    • A Medical needs form verifies the need of care to the state. The form must be signed by the patient's doctor indicating the need for care. Make sure that the information in this

  • Financial Assessment

    • The patient's financial eligibility for Michigan Medicaid will also be assessed as part of the application process. Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by MDHHS to determine eligibility.

Becoming a Paid Family Caregiver in Michigan

The Michigan Home Help Program allows family members to become paid caregivers, providing both care and financial support for their loved ones. To become a paid family caregiver, individuals must meet the eligibility requirements outlined by the program and mentioned above.

Once approved, caregivers must also register in the State of Michigan's CHAMPS system to receive payment for their caregiving services. This registration ensures that caregivers are properly compensated for their important work.

Contact Home Help Agency Paid.care for More Information

If you would like more information about becoming a caregiver for a disabled person and getting paid through the Michigan Home Help Program, please contact us today. We have years of experience in helping Michigan residents navigate the enrollment process and find additional support. Our team is here to assist you and provide the information you need to become a caregiver and receive the financial assistance you deserve.

Additional Resources

Contact form

Eligibility check

State-by-state pay rate calculator