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Private Duty Home Care

Many people wonder what private duty home care consists of and what is covered. Here are some definitions that will help you make an educated decision.


Employee-Based Home Care Model

With an employee based home care model, the caregiver that enters your home is covered under the agency eliminating a liability risk to the home owner. There is usually a fee which includes payment to the caregiver and the agency. At all times you have control of who works in your home.

  • Caregivers are employees of the agency
  • Payroll deductions are done by the agency
  • Criminal checks are done on the caregivers that come to your home
  • All employees are TB tested
  • All caregivers coming into your home are covered for Workers Compensation
  • All caregivers are bonded
  • Someone is available after hours in case of an emergency




Independent Contractor based model

Caregivers may/may not be covered under accounting laws as well under your homeowners insurance. Usually there is an hourly charge for the caregiver and a separate fee to the agency. You have control of who works in your home. The Independent Contractor can work whatever hours they want

  • Caregiver may receive a 1099 at the end of the year*
  • Some caregivers may be TB tested
  • Caregivers may/may not be covered by Workers Compensation**
  • Caregivers may/may not have bought their own fiduciary bond
  • Criminal background check may/may not have been done by agency
  • May/may not have a backup system in place if someone calls in sick


Private Hire Model

This model is used for all types of domestic help. You have control of who works in your home. If a caregiver does come and work for you, a few things you may want to consider:

  • Family may/may not be the employer*
  • You pay the caregiver directly
  • Payroll taxes may/may not need to be reported**
  • You may/may not have to cover for Workers Compensation coverage***
  • If no one shows up to work you may need a backup plan
  • You need to pay for Criminal Background check
  • You or caregiver need to pay for TB test
  • You need to buy a Fiduciary Bond


*Check with the EDD
**Check with an accountant
***Check with your Home Owners Insurance agent




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