Is Getting Paid to Care for a Family Member a Scam in Virginia?

No.

Getting paid to care for a family member in Virginia is part of an official Medicaid program. It is not a scam, not an under-the-table arrangement.

Virginia allows certain family members to be paid through the CCC Plus Waiver, a Medicaid program that helps people receive care at home instead of moving into a nursing facility.

This program is administered by the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS). Caregivers are paid through a formal payroll system. Hours must be approved and documented. Taxes are withheld.

This is a well-established, government-funded care program.

For official documentation, see: Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS)

This Is a Large State Program

The CCC Plus program serves over 200,000 Virginians who receive long-term services and support at home. It is one of the largest Medicaid programs in the state. The goal of the program is to keep elderly and disabled residents in their home (hopefully with their family) longer, rather than relocating them to a more costly long-term care facility.

Real Families Are Using It

In May 2023, the Virginia Mercury reported on families who were being paid to care for loved ones through Virginia's Medicaid disability waivers.

One story featured a former U.S. Army sergeant who left the military to care for his wife after a traumatic brain injury. After years of financial strain, becoming her paid caregiver gave the family stability.

Another story featured a mother who became the paid caregiver for her two sons with severe genetic disorders. She had been providing care for years without compensation.

(Source: Virginia Mercury article, May 2023)

Why It Can Sound Confusing

Some people assume it's a scam because it feels unusual to be paid to care for a relative. Payment only happens after:

1. The person needing care qualifies for Medicaid.
2. In-home services are approved.
3. The caregiver is enrolled and passes required checks.
4. Approved hours are submitted and verified.

The Bigger Picture

It is estimated that more than 800,000 Virginians provide unpaid care to a loved one that would qualify for Medicaid reimbursement. They simply aren't aware of the CCC Plus Waiver program.

See this article:

Family Caregivers in Virginia Provide $14.3 Billion in Unpaid Care