Hiring A Caregiver

The following list will help explain the pros, cons and risks of hiring a home caregiver:

Option 1: Hiring A Caregiver Yourself
Cost: Low to Moderate    Risk: High

• Check references on your own
• Order a criminal background check
• You are the employer - responsible for calculating and deducting state & federal payroll taxes
• Inquire whether the worker is qualified/trained/certified to perform the level of care required
• Negotiate your pay rate (as you will be paying the caregiver directly)
• Obtain Worker's Compensation Insurance (this work is often covered by your home owner policy)
• If the caregiver doesn't show up or fails to meet your needs, you will have to start over

Option 2: Use a Registry or Agency to Assist with Hiring a Caregiver
Cost: Moderate    Risk: High

• The registry will charge a fee to help YOU hire the caregiver
• Check References on your own
• Order a Criminal Background Check
• You are the employer - responsible for calculating and deducting state & federal payroll taxes
• Inquire whether the worker is qualified/trained/certified to perform the level of care required
• Negotiate your pay rate (as you will be paying the caregiver directly)
• Obtain Worker's Compensation Insurance (this work is often NOT covered by your home owner policy)
• If the caregiver doesn't show up or fails to meet your needs, you will have to start over

Option 3: Hire a Home Care company that employs to provide the Service
Cost: Moderate to High    Risk: Low

• The company hires qualified and trained caregivers based on client's needs
• The company is the employer and takes care of screening, hiring, and payroll
• The company orients the caregiver to the customized plan of care prior to initiation of service
• The company provided direct supervision during service period
• The company is responsible for caregiver compatibility and finding replacement if performance is not satisfactory
• The company has liability insurance, covers payroll taxes, and provides worker's compensation
• The company provides continuing education and training to the caregiver
• The caregiver may be eligible for employee benefits and the company may have this option available