Caring for someone you love is one of the hardest and most important things you can do. You deserve support, not just emotionally, but practically and financially too.
Applying for caregiver benefits in Texas is more complicated than it should be. The systems are confusing, the paperwork is overwhelming, and most families never find out about the help that is available to them. That is exactly why we built Olera to make this easier.
Here is what most families in Texas do not know: if you are already caring for an aging parent, spouse, or loved one, you may be able to get paid for the work you are doing every day. This guide walks you through everything, step by step.
Can You Get Paid as a Caregiver in Texas?
Yes. Through Texas Medicaid’s STAR+PLUS program, family members and close friends can be officially hired and paid as caregivers.
Who Qualifies to Be a Paid Caregiver in Texas
The requirements are straightforward:
- You are 18 or older
- You are a family member, relative, or close friend
- You can pass a background check
- Your loved one is enrolled in STAR+PLUS and needs help with daily activities
Who Can and Cannot Be a Paid Caregiver
Who can be paid
- Adult children
- Siblings and relatives
- Close friends
Who cannot
- Legal guardians (in most cases)
- Strangers not connected to the family
- Spouses (in most cases)
How Much Can You Earn
Most caregivers in Texas earn between $10 and $17 per hour. Hours are based on your loved one’s care plan, typically 20 to 56 hours per week.
MCO Pay Rate Comparison
| Organization | Hourly Rate | Est. Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| UnitedHealthcare | $10.60 – $15.75 | $848 – $3,528 |
| Molina Healthcare | $10.25 – $14.50 | $820 – $3,248 |
| Superior HealthPlan | $10.50 – $16.00 | $840 – $3,584 |
| Community First | $11.00 – $17.00 | $880 – $3,808 |
Rates vary by region and care plan. These are estimates based on 2025–2026 data.
How to Apply, Step by Step
The application process has six steps. Most families can complete it in 30 to 90 days.
Confirm STAR+PLUS enrollment
Call 211 or visit YourTexasBenefits.com to start.
Request Consumer Directed Services
Ask their managed care organization to add CDS to the care plan.
Service coordinator assessment
A coordinator will assess their care needs and approve hours.
Choose an FMSA
Pick a Financial Management Services Agency to handle payroll and paperwork.
Complete your application
Submit your caregiver application, background check, and training.
Submit timesheets and get paid
Receive payment typically every two weeks.
How Long Does It Take?
Here is a realistic timeline for each phase of the process.
What Documents Do You Need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Social Security card
- Proof of Texas address
- Consent to background check
Want the full checklist? Use the Olera Document Checklist to get a personalized document list you can download or email to yourself.
Find Out What Your Family Qualifies For
You do not have to figure this out alone. The Olera Benefits Finder shows you every program your loved one may qualify for in about 2 minutes. Free, no signup required.
Eligibility requirements are updated annually. Verify current program availability at hhs.texas.gov or call 211.
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