Eligibility Guide

Maryland CPAS Eligibility 2026: Your Essential Guide

Understanding CPAS eligibility is the first step to keeping your loved one at home. We break down the medical requirements, financial criteria, residence rules, and application process into a clear plan for your family.

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Maryland in-home caregiver supporting a loved one

Program Overview

Understanding CPAS Eligibility

CPAS is a State Plan entitlement — meaning there is no waitlist. The program serves older adults and individuals with disabilities who need help with daily living activities while remaining in their homes and communities.

Compared to the CO Waiver, CPAS is more accessible because it does not require a nursing facility level of care. If you need assistance with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL), you may qualify.

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State Plan entitlement
No waitlist
Home & community-based
More accessible than CO Waiver

Medical Necessity Requirements

CPAS requires a demonstrated medical need for assistance with daily living — but the threshold is more accessible than other Maryland programs

ADL Requirement

CPAS requires assistance with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL). This is more accessible than the CO Waiver and CFC, which require a full nursing facility level of care.

Bathing
Dressing
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Mobility
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Independence Focus

The Maryland Department of Health designed CPAS to help individuals maintain their independence. The program supports those who need moderate assistance without requiring the higher level of care associated with nursing home placement.

Financial Eligibility Criteria

You must qualify for Maryland Medicaid first. Multiple pathways are available depending on your situation.

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SSI Pathway

SSI recipients automatically qualify for Maryland Medicaid, simplifying the CPAS application process.

Medically Needy (Spend-Down)

If your income exceeds the standard limit, you may still qualify by applying medical expenses toward the income threshold.

Asset Limits

Approximately $2,500 for an individual and $3,000 for married couples. Primary residence is typically excluded from the asset calculation.

Because eligibility rules are complex and updated annually, we strongly recommend contacting Family Love Care for a free eligibility pre-screening before drawing any conclusions about whether you qualify.

Residence Requirements

CPAS services must be delivered in an approved community setting — not in institutional facilities

Approved Settings

  • Your own home
  • Home of a family member or friend
  • Approved community-based environments

Not Available In

Assisted Living Facilities

CPAS is not available for individuals residing in assisted living facilities. If a higher level of care is needed, the CO Waiver may be more appropriate.

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Supports Planning and Case Management

Personal Plan of Care

After CPAS approval, you begin supports planning and case management. A supports planner is assigned to develop your personal plan of care, outlining the specific services and hours you receive.

This plan is tailored to your unique needs and is regularly reviewed to ensure it continues to serve you effectively.

Nurse Monitoring

Nurse monitoring is included with CPAS. A registered nurse (RN) conducts periodic visits to ensure:

  • Care plan is medically appropriate
  • Services are meeting current needs
  • Changes in condition are identified and addressed

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Self-Direction: Choose Your Own Caregiver

One of the most valuable benefits of CPAS is the ability to select who provides your care

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The Application Process

The CPAS application process takes approximately 3 months. Here are the steps in order.

1

Initial Contact

Reach out to Family Love Care for a free CPAS eligibility pre-screening. Our team will guide you and connect you with Maryland Access Point (MAP) to begin the official application.

2

Medicaid Enrollment

You must have active Maryland Medicaid before a CPAS application can move forward. If you are not yet enrolled, apply through Maryland Health Connection or your local Department of Social Services.

3

Nurse Assessment

After Medicaid approval, a state nurse conducts an in-home assessment to evaluate your functional needs, confirming you require assistance with at least one ADL.

4

Supports Planning

Once approved, a Support Planning Agency (SPA) develops your personalized Plan of Service, outlining your approved personal care services and hours.

5

Caregiver Setup

Family Love Care onboards your chosen caregiver and ensures all requirements are met, including training, payroll, and ongoing support.

Family Love Care team helping Maryland families

Expert Guidance

How Family Love Care Helps You Navigate CPAS

Family Love Care specializes in navigating the CPAS eligibility process without confusion. Our team provides end-to-end support so your family can focus on care, not paperwork.

What FLC Helps With:

  • Understanding CPAS eligibility for personal care services
  • Preparing for functional assessment and supports planning
  • Helping families establish paid caregivers
  • Coordinating documentation
  • Ongoing guidance to maintain and maximize benefits

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Maryland CPAS eligibility

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