How to Pay for Home Care

Every Way Families Pay for In-Home Care

Home care is more affordable than most families expect — once you know the programs you qualify for. We accept all five of the most common payers in Wisconsin.

Pick the One That Fits

Most families use one of these five. Not sure which applies to you? Call us — we'll help you figure it out.

IRIS

Self-directed Medicaid waiver. For Wisconsin adults who qualify for Medicaid long-term care and want to choose and manage their own caregivers. You build the plan; we provide the care.

Learn about IRIS

Family Care

Managed Medicaid long-term care. Your MCO (My Choice Wisconsin, Inclusa, or Lakeland Care) authorizes hours and coordinates your services. We're contracted with all three.

Learn about Family Care

VA Benefits

For eligible veterans. Aid & Attendance, Veteran-Directed Care, Homemaker/Home Health Aide programs, and VA Community Care. We're a VA-approved provider with direct billing.

Learn about VA benefits

Long-Term Care Insurance

If you have a policy, we'll help you use it. We bill most major LTC carriers directly and handle the documentation required for claims.

Learn about LTC insurance

Simple, flexible, no contracts. Pay out of pocket for as many (or as few) hours as you need. Great for short-term needs, families above Medicaid limits, or adding hours to a Medicaid-covered plan.

Learn about private pay

Not sure which fits?

Eligibility depends on income, assets, veteran status, age, and level of care needed. We talk families through this every week — start with a free consultation and we'll map out your options.

Request a consultation

Common Questions

Does Medicare pay for home care?

Generally no — not for the ongoing, non-medical care we provide. Medicare covers short-term, post-hospitalization home health (skilled nursing, therapy) after a qualifying event. For personal care and companionship, the usual options are IRIS, Family Care, VA benefits, LTC insurance, or private pay.

How do I find out if I qualify for IRIS or Family Care?

Start with your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). In our service area, that's the ADRC of Eau Claire, Chippewa, or Dunn County. They do the functional screen, walk you through financial eligibility for Medicaid long-term care, and help you choose between IRIS and Family Care. Full enrollment typically takes 4–8 weeks.

Can I combine payers?

Yes — this is common. You might use IRIS or Family Care for the majority of your hours and private-pay for additional hours beyond what Medicaid authorizes. Or VA benefits plus private pay. We can help you think through the mix during the consultation.

How long before care can start?

Private pay or LTC insurance: often within a few days. Already enrolled in IRIS or Family Care: 1–2 weeks once we coordinate with your consultant or MCO. Not yet enrolled in IRIS/Family Care: allow 4–8 weeks for the full Medicaid enrollment process.

Still Not Sure Where to Start?

We'll figure it out together. Free consultation, no pressure.

Call (715) 491-1254 Request a Consultation