How To Get Paid as a Family Caregiver in Montana

It’s estimated that more than 118,000 people in Montana provide care to family and loved ones every year without receiving payment, with an estimated labor value of over $1.43 billion. 

If you‘re providing care to a family member or loved one, Aidaly is here to help you access the support and services you deserve. Check this list to see if you are eligible for compensation.

Tax Benefits

There are a number of federal tax benefits available for caregivers in order to help with expenses. Montana also offers state tax benefits which you can learn more about here.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The EITC is a refundable tax credit for those with one or more dependent children, meaning you can still claim a refund even if you don’t have to pay taxes for the year. Montana residents can also claim an additional 3% of the federal EITC as a refundable tax credit.

The Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Tax Credit for Other Dependents (ODC)

The CTC applies to caregivers of children and elderly parents, and provides a partially refundable tax credit of up to $2,000 per child under 16. If you are supporting one or more children over the age of 16, or living with and caring for aging parents, you can apply for a non-refundable ODC tax credit of $500. 

The Child and Dependent Tax Credit 

If you have paid for childcare while looking for work, you may be eligible for a partial refund through the federal Child and Dependent Care tax credit. Montana also offers a Montana Child and Dependent Care Deduction.

Medical and Dental Expenses Tax Deductions

If you spent more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) on medical and dental costs, you may be eligible for a federal tax deduction. Learn more about the details here.

Medicaid and Other State Programs

Medicaid offers a wide range of support for the care of elderly and disabled people. To determine if you are eligible for Medicaid-sponsored support, check your loved one’s Medicaid status here.

Home and Community Based Services Waiver (Big Sky)

Montana’s Big Sky Waiver (BSW) program offers a number of services through the Senior and Long-Term Care Division and the Department of Public Health and Human Services. To qualify for the BSW program, the dependent person must be over 65 or otherwise disabled to the point of requiring nursing home care, and qualify for Medicaid. The BSW program allows for all carers to be paid as a caregiver, regardless of relationship. You can learn more about the BSW program here.

Montana Community First Choice/Personal Assistance Programs

The Montana Community First Choice/Personal Assistance Program (CFC/PAP) aims to allow elderly and disabled adults to live at home with the paid assistance of a friend or family member. Unfortunately this does not include spouses.  

To qualify for CFC/PAP, the person requiring assistance must qualify for Medicaid and have a health condition which limits their ability to perform physically demanding daily activities. You can learn more about CFC/PAP here. 

Veterans Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a number of support services for those who were injured in the line of duty, including support and funding for caregivers in Montana.

VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

The PCAFC provides support and resources for the caregivers of Veterans who were severely injured in the line of duty. Support can include training, counseling, lodging, travel expenses, and a stipend. To find out more, click here.

Veteran-Directed Care Program (VDCP)

The VDCP provides Veterans with the funding to appoint a caregiver to assist them with daily tasks. This aims to allow veterans to live in their own homes instead of residential care facilities. You can learn more about the VDCP program in Montana here.

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Looking after a loved one can be an exhausting task, but Aidaly is here to make it a little easier. Join now for access to training, coaching, and community.