New York Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP)
New York's CDPAP is one of the most comprehensive family caregiver programs in the nation, allowing participants to hire almost any family member — including spouses and parents — as their paid personal assistant.
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(800) 555-0001How the New York Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) Works
New York's CDPAP stands out for its flexibility. You can hire almost anyone as your personal assistant, including spouses, parents of adult children, and other family members who would be excluded in most states.
As a CDPAP participant, you recruit, hire, train, supervise, and schedule your assistants. A fiscal intermediary handles payroll and benefits, while you maintain complete control over your care.
CDPAP has grown significantly across New York, serving communities from New York City to Buffalo, the Hudson Valley to Long Island, and rural upstate regions.
Who Qualifies in New York?
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be enrolled in New York Medicaid
- Must need assistance with Activities of Daily Living or skilled nursing tasks
- Must be self-directing or have a designated representative
- Must be stable enough to remain safely at home with services
- New York residents only
Who Can Be a Caregiver?
- Adult children
- Siblings & relatives
- Trusted friends
- Spouses (varies by program)
Frequently Asked Questions About New York's Program
Yes! New York CDPAP is one of the few programs nationally that allows spouses to serve as paid caregivers. This recognizes that spouses often provide the most dedicated care and shouldn't be financially penalized for doing so.
Yes, parents can be paid to care for their adult children (18+) through CDPAP. This is particularly valuable for families caring for adults with developmental disabilities or chronic health conditions.
A fiscal intermediary is an organization that handles employment functions for your personal assistants. They process timesheets, issue paychecks, withhold taxes, provide workers' compensation, and often offer benefits like health insurance and paid time off.
Hours are based on your assessed needs and can range from a few hours per week to 24-hour care (split-shift or live-in). New York is known for generous hour authorizations that truly support home-based living.
Yes, through most fiscal intermediaries, personal assistants working sufficient hours qualify for benefits including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement contributions. These benefits have improved significantly in recent years.
Ready to Get Started in New York?
Check your eligibility for the New York Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) today.
Call (800) 555-0001