Should I hire an independent contractor?

"I regularly am asked about the pros and cons of hiring an in-home caregiver directly, an “independent contractor,” versus having the services provided by an agency."

"Key considerations when exploring hiring an independent contractor to care for a loved one:"

"Strongly Recommended (Pre-Hire)
• Criminal Background Check
• Drug Testing
• Employment Verification
• Reference Checks"

"Required (While Caregiver is an Employee)
NOTE – Even if you both agree that the caregiver is an independent contractor, the IRS will very likely disagree and hold you personally accountable for the following:
• Social Security
• Medicare
• State and Federal Unemployment
• State and Federal Payroll Taxes
• Workers Compensation"

"Other Considerations
NOTE – Many homeowners insurance policies specifically exclude coverage for an in-home employee.
• Bonding
• Professional Liability Insurance
• General Liability Insurance
• Scheduling
• Training
• Supplies"

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"Sam, you are so right in all of your points regarding employment of private duty caregivers. Thank you for sharing such excellent words of advise."

"Our senior population is very vulnerable. It is absolutely a best practice to hire an accredited agency whenever possible. Although cost is often a concern the cost involved for hiring outside an agency can be so much greater."

"Thanks again for sharing this Sam.
Happy Holidays to all
Nancy Beland, Starfish Resources
www.starfishresources.net"

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"I agree. Thanks for sharing and providing insight."

"Tiffany Carol
Home Care Assistance
http://www.homecareassistance.com/"

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