Parents Caring for Children (Under 19)
Through Nebraska’s Legally Responsible Individual (LRI) program, parents may be able to become paid caregivers for their own child if the child has a disability or medical condition that requires care beyond typical parenting. This program allows families to keep care at home while receiving support through the Medicaid A&D Waiver.
You may qualify if:
Your child is under 19
Your child lives at home in Nebraska
Your child needs extraordinary care beyond typical parenting responsibilities
Your child is eligible for or applying for Medicaid A&D Waiver
Spouses Caring for Spouses
The LRI program can also allow spouses to become paid caregivers for their partner when significant daily care is needed. This option helps families remain together at home while receiving the support necessary to maintain health, dignity, and independence.
You may qualify if:
You are the legal spouse
Your spouse requires daily personal care or supervision
Your spouse is eligible for or applying for the Medicaid A&D Waiver
How long does approval take?
Approval timelines vary depending on Medicaid eligibility, waiver availability, and required documentation. If your loved one is already on the Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver, the process can move more quickly. If not, it may take several weeks to a few months.
The good news? We walk you through each step and help you understand what to expect so there are no surprises.
That’s okay. Many families start there. If your loved one is not yet on Medicaid, the first step is to apply through AccessNebraska or contact DHHS. We can help guide you through what’s required and connect you with the right resources.
Medicaid eligibility is income- and needs-based, so each situation is unique — but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
That’s very common. If your child is already receiving services (therapy, school supports, respite, etc.), the LRI program may be able to complement those services — not replace them.
We coordinate with existing providers to ensure your child’s care plan remains seamless and supportive.
To apply to become an LRI caregiver with AmanaCare, applicants must complete an online application through our hiring portal: https://amanacare.bamboohr.com/careers/324
As part of the application process:
A resume is required (it can be very basic — simply listing your experience and skills is perfectly fine; we just need one on file).
All applicants must complete a background check, even if they are caring for a family member.
Nebraska requires LRI caregivers to be CPR and First Aid certified.
AmanaCare has CPR and First Aid instructors on staff, and we can help you get certified in a way that works with your schedule. LRI caregivers at AmanaCare start at $21 per hour.
Can grandparents qualify to be caregivers?
Yes, grandparents may be eligible to be paid caregivers, but not typically through the LRI program. Because LRI stands for “Legally Responsible Individual,” the program applies specifically to parents or legal guardians. Grandparents may only qualify under LRI if they have legally adopted their grandchild and are the child’s legal guardian.
AmanaCare serves families across Nebraska. With offices in Lincoln, Omaha, Kearney, North Platte, and Scottsbluff — plus care coordinators who travel — we support both urban and rural communities statewide.
If you’re unsure whether we serve your area, just reach out. We likely do.
If your family doesn’t qualify for the LRI program, that doesn’t mean there are no options.
We can help explore:
Private pay services
Other Medicaid waiver programs
AmanaCare's Family Caring for Family Program
Community resources
Local disability support organizations
We are dedicated to helping your family find the right support.
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