Home Help's core structure hasn't changed for 2026 — it's still a Medicaid state-plan entitlement with no waitlist, still allows self-direction, and still lets families choose a trusted caregiver. What's updated are the numbers underneath it, and a few enforcement details worth knowing before you apply or renew.
The updated 2026 pay rate
Agency employee wages depend on the employer’s written offer. An agency reimbursement rate is not an employee wage. Compare reimbursement with caregiver wages.
Ask MDHHS which Medicaid financial rules apply to the applicant’s category and circumstances.
Medicaid financial rules depend on the eligibility category and household circumstances. Ask MDHHS to identify the rules that apply to the applicant before making financial decisions.
EVV enforcement is tighter in 2026
Electronic Visit Verification through HHAeXchange+ has been in place for several years, but 2026 has seen more consistent enforcement — meaning missed or incomplete clock-ins are more likely to actually delay payment than they may have in earlier, looser rollout years. See our EVV explainer if you're not yet clear on how it works.
What hasn't changed
The fundamentals remain the same: no enrollment cap or regional waitlist, spouses still can't be paid caregivers, adult children/siblings/grandchildren/friends still can, and the MDHHS-5534 home assessment is still the starting point for approval. If you looked into Home Help a few years ago and walked away, the program is still there — just with updated 2026 numbers worth a fresh look.
