Structured Family Caregiving in Indiana
What is Structured Family Caregiving (SFC)?
Structured Family Caregiving is an Indiana Medicaid-funded program that allows individuals who require daily support to receive care from someone they know and trust — often a family member — in their own home. Rather than bringing in an outside aide or relocating to an institutional setting, the care recipient lives with the caregiver and receives tailored support based on their needs.
Under this arrangement:
Medicaid Waiver funds pay a daily stipend to a qualified caregiver who lives with their loved one.
Paid family caregivers may receive a tax-free stipend for their service, subject to state and federal guidance.
At A Legacy Of Love Homecare, we utilize this program to support helps families in cities and counties across Indiana, including the Indianapolis metro area, Hamilton County, Marion County, Johnson County, Madison County, Allen County, Porter County, Vanderburgh County, and more.
Who Qualifies for Structured Family Caregiving (SFC)?
To participate in Indiana’s SFC program, the following criteria generally apply:
Care Recipient Requirements
Must reside in Indiana and live in their own home (not in a facility).
Must be enrolled in the Aged & Disabled Medicaid Waiver (including PathWays for Aging or Health & Wellness).
Must require assistance with daily living needs that would typically qualify for nursing facility care (e.g., help with bathing, dressing, mobility).
Must live full-time with their caregiver in the same household.
Caregiver Requirements
Must be 18 years or older.
Must be willing to provide consistent daily care.
Must pass a background check and meet other state eligibility requirements.
May include family members such as adult children, spouses, siblings, or close relatives (based on program rules).
What Kind of Care Is Covered?
SFC supports a wide range of daily care tasks that allow individuals to remain safely at home. These may include:
Assistance with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) – bathing, toileting, grooming, dressing
Meal preparation and nutrition
Light housekeeping and homemaking
Mobility assistance (transfers, walking support)
Transport to therapeutic or medical appointments
Companionship and cues for safe routines
This means your loved one can stay in familiar surroundings in Indianapolis, Hamilton County, Noblesville, Carmel, Fishers, and more, with consistent, personalized care.
How the Pay Structure Works (SFC)
Indiana’s Structured Family Caregiving program provides financial compensation to qualified caregivers who live with and support their loved ones. While exact pay depends on the waiver level of care and the individual’s needs, here’s how it generally works:
Daily stipend is paid through Medicaid Waiver funding
Amount is tied to the assessed level of care required
Payments can be tax-free for the caregiver under current IRS guidance when tied to a Medicaid Waiver service — but individuals should consult a tax professional for personal guidance.
The care plan is developed with guidance from a case manager and registered nurse, and payment is structured around those support needs
This model allows caregivers in Hamilton County, surrounding Central Indiana cities, and beyond to be compensated for the love and work they put into caring for family members at home.
Important Regulatory Considerations
Waiver Changes & LRI Guidelines
Recent updates to Indiana’s Medicaid waiver policies (including those affecting Legally Responsible Individuals (LRI) and billing practices) mean that providers and caregivers must work with a care manager to ensure compliance. Certain services, such as Attendant Care or other waiver services, may have specific hour limitations or documentation requirements.
It’s essential to work with an experienced provider — like A Legacy of Love Homecare — who understands these regulations and can coordinate care plans that optimize available Medicaid support.
Who We Are & How We Help in Central Indiana
At A Legacy of Love Homecare, we assist families in Indianapolis, Hamilton County, Marion County, and throughout Central and Northern Indiana to:
Understand SFC eligibility and requirements
Connect with Medicaid Waiver case managers
Set up compliant care plans
Coordinate assessments and documentation
Provide ongoing support and coaching for family caregivers
We serve clients across Indiana including Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Greenwood, Bloomington, Fort Wayne, Evansville, Terre Haute, and many surrounding counties — offering peace of mind and expert guidance through every step of the structured family caregiving process.
Taking the Next Step
Structured Family Caregiving can be a life-changing support for families looking to keep their loved ones safe at home while receiving financial support for the care provided.
If you’re exploring SFC for your family, especially in the Indianapolis, Hamilton, or surrounding counties, our experienced team at A Legacy of Love Homecare is here to help.
➡️ Contact us today to get started with eligibility review, care planning, or questions about Structured Family Caregiving and Medicaid Waivers.
