Caregivers

Work & Money

Caregiving can affect employment, leave, insurance, transportation, housing, and household income. Start with official rules and individual benefits counseling.

Family and Medical Leave Act

The U.S. Department of Labor explains FMLA rights for eligible employees who need leave to care for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition. Eligibility, employer coverage, qualifying relationship, certification, and whether leave is paid all matter. FMLA is not automatic paid leave.

Read family caregiver FMLA guidance Read FMLA Fact Sheet 28P

Sources: Family Caregivers and the Family and Medical Leave Act · Fact Sheet #28P: Taking Leave from Work When You or Your Family Member Has a Serious Health Condition

A benefits conversation checklist

  • Ask your employer about leave, schedule changes, remote work, and accommodations.
  • Ask whether your state or employer offers paid family leave or paid sick time.
  • Review health insurance, disability insurance, flexible spending, and dependent-care options.
  • Ask a social worker or benefits counselor about Medicaid, Medicare, transportation, and equipment pathways.
  • Keep copies of applications, certifications, denials, appeals, and deadlines.

Sources: Fact Sheet #28P: Taking Leave from Work When You or Your Family Member Has a Serious Health Condition · Help for Older Adults and People with Disabilities · Home Health Services

State and program differences

Medicaid, paid-leave programs, home-care waivers, caregiver compensation, and local services can vary by state and by eligibility category. A national resource page cannot promise that a program exists or pays in your location. Confirm the current rule with the state agency or a qualified benefits counselor.

Sources: Help for Older Adults and People with Disabilities · Eldercare Locator

Planning around work

Ask the care team for realistic appointment and treatment timing, identify which tasks require your presence, and make a backup plan for transportation or supervision. Keep the person’s privacy and consent in mind when talking with an employer.

Sources: Caregiving

Sources & Further Reading

These source cards link directly to the original material. External websites open in a new tab.

Caregiver information is educational and does not replace individualized instruction from the ALS team, a licensed clinician, an employer or benefits professional, or an emergency response system.

Caregiver information last reviewed: 09-30-2026

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