Summary of Statistics
Taking care of a family member or loved one who needs our assistance is a duty that most accept readily, without expecting remuneration. Over 450,000 people work as unpaid caregivers for loved ones in Oregon today. This is a difficult job that can often have a significant emotional impact on the caregiver, not to mention financial strain.
In Oregon, approximately 5.9 billion dollars of unpaid care is provided annually. Because of this, there are state and federal programs in place to provide assistance and compensation to those undertaking such caregiving roles. At Aidaly, we understand the pressures and strain a situation like this can cause - this is why we are committed to helping carers access the benefits they deserve.
On average, caregivers spend 26% of their own income on providing care. Many people don’t realize there is help available that can provide some relief. Aidaly is passionate about giving carers information and access to the state and federal support available to them. Read on to learn about the benefits you may qualify for in Oregon.
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Tax Credits
The government offers benefits to taxpayers to assist with costs. Determine which options might be available to you below.
The Child Tax Credit
The Child Tax Credit is a government initiative that offers families with children or dependents up to $3,000 per child each financial year. This can take the form of tax relief or stipend payments. Visit this website to find out if you qualify.
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
If you paid for someone to take care of your child or another dependent in your care while you worked or looked for work, you may be eligible to get up to $8000 of these costs reimbursed through the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. To learn more and determine if you qualify, visit this website.
Medicaid Waivers in Oregon
If the loved one you are caring for is on Medicaid, they may be able to utilize a Medicaid waiver to direct care payments to you instead of a Medicaid approved agency. This is called ‘self direction of funds’, and you should reach out to your loved one’s Medicaid provider to inquire about eligibility. Learn more about Medicaid waivers here.
Veterans Benefits
U.S. Veterans are entitled to extra benefits through the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). If the loved one in your care is a Veteran, there are programs that may be available to help you.
Veteran-Directed Care
The Veteran-Directed Care program enables veterans who require ongoing care to choose their caregiver. They can receive payments to be used to employ a caregiver, and they can decide to employ a professional or a family member. If the person you are caring for is a veteran, they may be eligible. Visit this website for more information.
The Veterans Aid and Attendance Program
The Veterans Aid and Attendance Program (VAA) provides an additional pension of up to $3,261 per month, separate from the normal VA pension. Qualifying Veterans can access these funds and use them to pay for care they may require, including paying family members that provide care. Visit this website for more information.
Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers
Family members that live with Veterans full time may be eligible for comprehensive assistance including monthly stipend payments, help with other expenses incurred while obtaining care, and training to help with caregiver duties. The program was recently extended to cover Veterans from any period of service. Visit this website to learn more.
Aidaly recognizes that caregiving can be solitary work. It’s important to remember there is help available if you need it.Contact us today to access the benefits you deserve.