Programs that use federal, state, local and/or other funding to provide financial assistance for family members (or other persons such as neighbors) who are serving as informal primary caregivers for frail elderly individuals or, in some cases, for adults with disabilities; for grandparents caring for grandchildren; or, in some jurisdictions, for families caring for children with severe disabilities. Age and other eligibility criteria may vary by area. Assistance may be provided in the form of cash to the consumer/caregiver, vouchers which can be redeemed with approved service providers or through pro bono services donated by local service providers to a service bank for family caregivers. The objective of the program is to make it possible for primary caregivers to obtain the assistance they need in order to continue in their caregiving role which, in turn, enables the frail elderly individual or person with a disability to remain in the community.

Family members, friends, neighbors and others who assume responsibility for attending to the daily needs of individuals who are temporarily or permanently unable to care for themselves due to general frailty; illnesses, injuries or progressively debilitating conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or mental illness; or other incapacitating problems without compensation. Some, but not all, states have programs that help people pay for the caregiver of their choice, and in certain circumstances that can be a family member. Most of these programs have income and other eligibility requirements that the care recipient must meet, and strict rules often apply as to who can be paid for the caregiving. Benefits may also be available for veterans and their families through the Veteran's Administration.