Maryland CPAS Caregiver Requirements: A 2026 Guide
Becoming a paid caregiver through the Maryland CPAS program allows family members and trusted individuals to provide personal care while earning compensation. This guide covers qualifications, background checks, training, and the full application process.
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Program Overview
Community Personal Assistance Services (CPAS)
CPAS is a Maryland Medicaid state plan program that provides personal care assistance to individuals with chronic illness, medical conditions, or disabilities. As a state plan entitlement, there is typically no waiting list for eligible participants.
The program provides personal assistance services, nurse monitoring, and supports planning to help individuals remain safely in their homes and communities — aging in place with dignity rather than entering a nursing facility.
Basic Caregiver Requirements
What you need to become a paid CPAS caregiver in Maryland
Age Requirement
Must be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to work in the United States.
Background Check
Must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting as required by the state.
Training
No CPR or First Aid certification required. Must complete state-required training, which Family Love Care provides for free.
Choice of Caregiver
Participants can choose family members, spouses, or trusted friends as their caregiver.
Agency Enrollment
Must be employed by a licensed Residential Services Agency (RSA) like Family Love Care.
Functional Assessment and ADLs
A nurse conducts a functional assessment to determine the level of assistance needed
Assessment Process
To qualify for CPAS services, a participant must need help with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL). A state nurse will conduct a functional assessment to evaluate and document these needs.
The assessment determines the type and amount of personal assistance services the participant will receive. This is a required step before services can begin.
Services Covered
- Personal hygiene (bathing, grooming, dressing)
- Meal preparation and feeding assistance
- Mobility support and transfers
- Medication reminders
Financial Eligibility
No Separate Financial Requirements
CPAS uses existing Medicaid eligibility — there are no separate financial requirements beyond what is needed for Maryland Medicaid itself. If you are already approved for full Maryland Medicaid, you meet the financial eligibility for CPAS.
If you are not yet enrolled in Medicaid, you can apply through Maryland Health Connection. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Maryland Medicaid.
Supports Planning Services
Every CPAS participant is assigned a Support Planning Agency (SPA) to coordinate their care
Personal Assistance Services
Your support planner coordinates all approved personal care services to ensure your needs are consistently met.
Care Plan Development
A personalized Plan of Service is created outlining the specific services, hours, and goals for your care.
Nurse Monitoring
Registered nurses provide regular visits to ensure your health remains stable and your care plan stays appropriate.
Additional Community Services
CPAS participants may also access other Medicaid-funded community services
Respite Care
Temporary relief for primary caregivers, providing short-term substitute care for the participant.
Mental Health Services
Access to counseling and mental health support covered through Maryland Medicaid.
Transportation Assistance
Help getting to medical appointments and other essential services through Medicaid transportation.
Home Health Care
Skilled nursing and home health aide services when medically necessary, covered separately through Medicaid or Medicare.
How to Apply for CPAS
The application process generally takes up to 3 months from start to finish
Contact Family Love Care
Start with a free pre-screening to confirm your eligibility. Our team will guide you through the process and help you gather all required documentation.
State Screening and Nurse Assessment
Family Love Care will connect you with Maryland Access Point (MAP) to begin the official application. A state nurse conducts a functional assessment to confirm you need assistance with at least one ADL.
Care Plan Development
Once approved, a Support Planning Agency (SPA) creates your personalized Plan of Service, outlining approved personal care services and weekly hours.
Start Services with Family Love Care
Your chosen caregiver is onboarded through Family Love Care. We handle all training, payroll, tax withholding, and ongoing support so care can begin.
Benefits and Support for Caregivers
Family Love Care provides training, financial support, and resources for CPAS caregivers
Training and Development
Access to first aid training, dementia care education, and other specialized caregiver training provided at no cost by Family Love Care.
Financial Support
Regular paychecks through W-2 employment with Family Love Care, including payroll management, tax withholding, and direct deposit.
Respite Services
Access to respite care for temporary relief, ensuring caregivers can rest while participants continue to receive quality care.
Local Resources
Connection to Maryland caregiver support networks, community programs, and additional assistance through the National Family Caregiver Support Program.
CPAS vs. Adult Foster Care
While both programs support individuals who need personal care, CPAS is specifically designed for those who want to stay in their own home with more flexibility in choosing their caregiver. Adult Foster Care involves moving into a licensed caregiver’s home. CPAS offers greater independence, participant-directed care, and the ability to select a family member or friend as your caregiver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CPAS caregiver requirements in Maryland
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