Yes, family members can be paid for caregiving in South Carolina. The state government offers financial assistance, tax credits and support programs to people who provide in-home care to their family members. There are additional options for the caregivers of veterans. 

Who Pays Family Caregivers in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, there are an estimated 730,000 residents caring for a disabled or elderly family member. This care ranges from help with personal grooming to cooking and housekeeping. Combined, these caregivers deliver 610 million hours of assistance per year. Caring for a family member can be time-consuming and taxing on both the mind and body. The following programs are designed to help remunerate caregivers and alleviate some of their stress. 

The SC Community Choices waiver covers the cost of personal care, home modifications, medical equipment and other tools that help adults stay healthy at home. It’s open to disabled adults and seniors over 65. Family members caring for veterans may be eligible for assistance from the VA. Under the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, a stipend is offered to the primary caregivers of service members. This program also offers education and mental health support to help caregivers avoid burnout. South Carolina offers some tax credits to people who care for their elderly family members. One is available for people who have a dependent living with them in their homes.

What Other Types of Support are There for Family Caregivers in South Carolina?

The South Carolina Department on Aging, in partnership with the state’s 10 Area Agencies on Aging, operates the Family Caregiver Support Program. It has counselors and case managers that can help seniors and their families apply for assistance programs. In addition to caregiver education and support groups, this program provides respite care and additional assistance as needed. Veterans and their family members can seek similar services from their closest veteran center.