How to apply for North Carolina Family Caregiver Support Program

Who it's for

This program helps family and unpaid caregivers with information, access to services, individual counseling, support groups, caregiver training, short-term respite care, and limited supplemental services. It serves caregivers age 18+ caring for someone 60 or older (or any age with Alzheimer's/dementia), and older relatives age 55+ raising children or caring for an adult with a disability. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to see what is available.

What you'll need

• No documents required to start — contact your local Area Agency on Aging

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about North Carolina Family Caregiver Support Program. 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 no documents required to start — contact your local Area Agency on Aging — 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.

Step by step

1. Check that the program fits your situation. It serves family and unpaid caregivers age 18 or older who care for someone age 60 or older, or a person of any age with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia. It also serves relatives age 55 or older who are raising children or caring for an adult with a disability.
2. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to ask what services are offered in your area. Services are available in varying degrees across the state, and some supplemental services are offered on a limited basis.
3. Apply online or call 1-919-855-3400 to get started.
4. Share basic information about your caregiving situation when asked. No documents are required to start.
5. Complete any next steps the local Area Agency on Aging gives you so they can connect you with available caregiver services, such as information, counseling, training, support groups, respite care, or limited supplemental services.
6. Renew your participation each year if you are still receiving help through the program.

What to expect: After you apply, the local Area Agency on Aging will review your situation and tell you what caregiver supports are available where you live. This program serves the caregiver, including respite and support for the person receiving care. There is no income test. Processing times vary, so ask the agency for an estimate. If you qualify and receive services, expect to renew each year.

Renewals

annual