When someone you love needs help to stay safely and comfortably at home, finding the right person can be a challenge. Even though the benefits of having help are clear, the idea of inviting a stranger into your home understandably makes many people feel uncomfortable. Add to that the challenge of finding a caregiver and it can seem easier to just take care of everything on your own.
It doesn’t have to be impossible to find the help you need. For most people, there are really two options for finding an in-home care provider: either hire a home care agency, such as Visiting Angels, or hire a private independent caregiver.
Hiring an independent caregiver may seem more affordable than a home care agency at first glance. However, you need to consider employment laws and regulations since in-home care is considered to be an employer-employee relationship. As such, you are responsible for federal and state employment taxes, which can swiftly escalate the cost above a simple hourly rate. You may also need to carry special insurance to protect yourself in the event of an accident – a simple homeowner’s policy is probably not enough. Information on federal employment tax requirements can be found in Publication 926 from the IRS. For state requirements, contact your state employment department.
In addition, you will need to have a fully-developed job description and employment agreement. You should conduct a thorough review of any private caregiver’s background, and may want to consider checking credit as well. Be sure also to verify that the candidate meets any state licensing requirements to provide “hands-on” care. The caregiver will need to fill out an Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9 and you need to keep a copy. This verifies that the person is legally entitled to work in the United States. The I-9 form and Publication 926 can be downloaded at www.irs.gov/formspubs/index.html or ordered by calling (800) TAX-FORM.
Most people find that choosing a home care agency is the better option, both in terms of managing the caregiver and the peace of mind an agency can provide, as an established, reputable home care agency takes the entire burden off of you.
The major benefits of using a home care agency include:
Before considering hiring an independent caregiver, carefully consider all of the liability, responsibility and attentiveness that will be required of you. To discuss if a home care agency is the best option for your needs, call Visiting Angels at 800-365-4189 or click here to learn more.
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Their care is excellent. Their staff is well-trained and conscientious.