How do I get the right papers to apply for benefits?

If all you want is to be there to help her....you don’t need to apply anywhere.

but, if you are looking to get paid, that is a different problem. Most family caregivers are not paid at all. Most States do not pay family members...but even where they do..it is very little and not something you can live on. Worse still, if you do not have a paying job then you are not also working toward your own retirement....not a good plan.

Its going to be hard to get paid for caring for Mom. In the state of PA there are agencies that train and hire caregivers and allow them to care for a parent. The pay wouldn't be much but benefits are offered. The program is probably subsidized by the government somehow. You could check out if your state offers this.

Is Mom on Social Security Disability she has Medicare and Medicaid. Call Medicaid (even if she isn't on it) and ask about homecare help, Let them evaluate and see what services they can provide.

I will assume here you are in your 40s. You need to work for your future. SS goes back 35 years from time you take it. If you haven't worked in that time, then you jeopardize the amt of your SS income. You must work 40 qrts (10 years) to even get SS and Medicare.

Your Mom needs to realize that she is jeopardizing your future earnings.