How to apply for Pennsylvania Caregiver Support Program (CSP)
Pennsylvania Department of Aging — delivered through the 52 Area Agencies on Aging
Who it's for
The Pennsylvania Caregiver Support Program helps the adult who is the main unpaid caregiver for a person age 60 or older with functional needs, or for a person of any age with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. A care manager from the local Area Agency on Aging assesses the caregiver's needs and sets up a plan. The program can reimburse out-of-pocket caregiving costs and supplies up to $600 a month and can help pay for home modifications and assistive devices, plus respite care and support services. There is no income limit to enroll; the reimbursement percentage depends on the care receiver's household income (100% at or below 200% of the poverty level, sliding down to 10% just under 380%, and care management only above that). Apply through the Area Agency on Aging that serves the county where the care receiver lives.
This program supports the caregiver, not the senior directly: an adult who is primarily responsible for regular care must apply, and the AAA care manager assesses both people. Households already enrolled in Medicaid long-term services (Community HealthChoices or LIFE) are not eligible. The reimbursement amount depends on the care receiver's income and the assessed plan; the AAA makes the final decision. Not legal or financial advice.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Find my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Proof of Pennsylvania residency for both the caregiver and the care receiver
- Care receiver's household income (used to set the reimbursement percentage)
- Receipts for caregiving-related expenses and supplies (for reimbursement)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-717-783-1550
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Pennsylvania Caregiver Support Program (CSP). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of Pennsylvania residency for both the caregiver and the care receiver, care receiver's household income (used to set the reimbursement percentage), receipts for caregiving-related expenses and supplies (for reimbursement) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
annual reassessment
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.