How to Apply for Florida’s Home Care for the Elderly Subsidy
HCE is a household subsidy—not regular caregiver employment or an hourly wage.
Start here
Call the Brevard-area Elder Helpline at 407-514-0019 and ask for a Home Care for the Elderly screening. Florida currently lists a $160 monthly basic subsidy for participants, with possible special subsidies for approved food and nutritional supplements, supplies, equipment, home modifications, or services.
What to have in front of you
- Proof the older adult is age 60 or older
- Living arrangement and name of the adult caregiver who lives with the person
- Income, asset, SSI, QMB, or SLMB information requested by the program
- Evidence of nursing-home risk or care needs
- Receipts or estimates for special-subsidy items being requested
What to say when someone answers
“I want an HCE screening. The older adult lives in a private home with an adult caregiver. Please explain the current income and asset rules, waitlist, basic subsidy, and how a special-subsidy request is approved.”
Small but useful: Write down the person’s name, the date, the exact next step, and when you should call again.
Do this in order
- 1
Confirm the living arrangement and caregiver requirement before gathering a large packet.
- 2
Ask which financial eligibility route applies and what documents prove it.
- 3
Ask whether the local program has funding or a prioritized list.
- 4
For a special need—supplies, ramp, equipment, aide, or nursing—ask what estimate, order, or approval is required before purchase.
What happens next
HCE supports care in a family-type private-home setting as an alternative to institutional care. It may provide a basic payment plus approved special subsidies and case management. It does not make the caregiver a state employee.
If they say “we’ll put you on the list”
Ask whether the person should also be screened for Community Care for the Elderly, respite, ADI, SMMC LTC, or equipment benefits. Do not buy an item expecting reimbursement until the program confirms approval rules.
Official sources
Checked August 9, 2026. Programs, hours, funding, and enrollment lists can change. Confirm details directly before relying on them.