There are a number of ways to get help in the home that isn't medical. But no matter what level of service you want, chances are you will have to decide whether to hire an independent contractor or someone who works for an agency. Here are more details about each choice.
Service that is not run by a government agency
Independent contractors, who do not work for an agency, are hired by a family member or the person who needs help. Even though this may seem cheaper, there could be some hidden costs and risks:
Whoever hires an independent contractor is technically the employer and must pay all the necessary payroll taxes.
If an independent contractor gets hurt on the job, the person who hired them has to pay for their medical bills and other costs.
If the independent contractor gets sick or goes on vacation, he or she does not have to find someone else to do the job.
People often hire independent contractors without first doing the right background checks. This could leave them or their loved ones vulnerable to theft, fraud, or even abuse.
Work for an agency
People are hired by companies like Interim HealthCare to help with things like making meals, doing light housework, bathing, and just being there to talk to. Because it takes care of taxes, insurance, bonds, and workers' compensation, the agency can help consumers avoid many of the problems they might face if they hire a freelancer. Also, if an employee is sick or takes a vacation, the agency sends someone else to do the work.
The home care agency gives its workers training and keeps an eye on them as well. This helps the agency keep track of clients' changing needs and respond to them, making sure that the right level/skill of caregiver is given to each client. State law also says that the agency has to do background checks.
A lot of the time, the agency is also licenced to give people a higher level of home care, like skilled nursing. That means that a person doesn't have to work with more than one company as his needs change. When you work with one company, it can be easier to get paid by formal sources like Medicare.
