Answers to Our Frequently Asked Questions


Who can make a referral to Adult Family Care?

Anyone can make a referral! We often have families or caregivers contact us directly, however; we also receive referrals from Primary Care Physicians, Case Managers, and Social Workers.


I made a referral, what is the next step?

After a referral is made, you will receive a call from one of our Social Worker’s within 2-3 business days.


How do I know if I am eligible for Adult Family Care?

To be eligible for AFC the person receiving care must:

  • Have MassHealth Standard/CommonHealth;
  • Require assistance with at least one activity of daily living (bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, ambulating, or eating); and
  • Live with the caregiver.

If you are still unsure if you or the person you care for is eligible, please give us a call at 617-440-0987! We would be happy to consult with you.


Am I eligible to be an AFC caregiver?

AFC caregivers must be at least 18 years of age and cannot be the spouse or legal guardian of the participant (person receiving care).


Does the caregiver and participant (person receiving care) need to have MassHealth?

Only the participant needs to have MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth.


The person I care for has MassHealth but I’m not sure if it’s MassHealth Standard/CommonHealth, will they still qualify for the program?

There are many types of MassHealth plans, AFC can only accept MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth. If you are not sure which plan you are on, gives a call at 617-440-0987 – we are happy to check your eligibility status!


How often can I expect to receive a caregiver stipend?

We pay our caregivers on a monthly basis. Direct Deposit is available.

Can I care for more than one AFC participant in my home?

Each household can have no more than three Level II AFC participants in each home.


I would like to become a paid AFC caregiver, but I receive SSDI, will I still qualify?

Receiving SSDI does not disqualify you from being an AFC caregiver, however; we must ensure that the disability does not impact the care needs of the participant (care recipient). In addition, the caregiver stipend may reduce your SSDI. We suggest you contact SSDI to determine how the caregiver stipend may impact your SSDI.

I am the legal guardian of the person I care for, can I become the paid AFC caregiver?

MassHealth regulations state that spouses and legal guardians cannot be paid AFC caregivers.


I provide the majority of care for my family member but we do not live together, can I still be the paid caregiver in AFC?

MassHealth regulations state that a paid AFC caregiver must live in the same home as the participant (care recipient).

I still have some question, how can I get more information about the Adult Family Care program?

  You can call us directly at 617-440-0987 and speak with one of our program managers who will be happy to answer any questions you may have. If you are an employee of a SCO, Adult Day Health, or any community/healthcare organization, we would be happy to schedule a presentation to teach your staff about this valuable program.