For families and caregivers
Step-by-step guides for helping a parent or other older relative with benefits, care and money.
When a parent dies: benefit steps for the family
Who tells Social Security, which payments must be returned, the $255 death payment, survivor benefits for the surviving parent, the final tax return, and veterans' burial benefits.
Leaving the hospital: Medicare rights and next steps
Check whether your parent was admitted or kept under observation, how to appeal a discharge that feels too soon, and what Medicare pays for nursing or home care afterwards.
Paying for a nursing home: Medicare, Medicaid and protecting a spouse
Medicare pays only for short rehab stays. How Medicaid pays for long-term nursing home care, what the spouse at home can keep, the 5-year look-back, and how to compare homes.
Managing a parent's benefits: representative payee and power of attorney
A power of attorney is not enough for Social Security. How to become a representative payee, what the job involves, and how to let a family member speak to Social Security and Medicare.
Can I get paid to care for a parent?
Medicaid programs that let your parent hire their own helpers, VA programs that pay family caregivers of veterans, tax credits, unpaid job-protected leave, and free caregiver support.
Free local help for caregivers, including respite care: Eldercare Locator, 1-800-677-1116.