Private Care Service Agreement and Terms

What a good one includes

• A detailed list of specific caregiving duties you will perform, alongside explicit exclusions of tasks you do not provide.
• Your exact hourly or flat rate, overtime policies, holiday pay rates, and the required payment schedule.
• A clear cancellation window and associated fees to protect your income when clients make last-minute schedule changes.
• Explicit terms for how out-of-pocket expenses, such as groceries, mileage, or activity fees, will be tracked and reimbursed.
• A mutual notice period required by either party to end the caregiving relationship permanently.
• Step-by-step procedures and authorized contacts for medical emergencies or sudden changes in the client's condition.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Failing to define boundaries, which leads to clients gradually adding housekeeping, pet care, or heavy lifting without extra compensation.
• Leaving yourself vulnerable to lost income by not charging for late-notice cancellations or client vacations.
• Using your own money for client supplies without a strict, pre-approved system for immediate reimbursement.
• Modifying rates or hours over a casual conversation without updating the written contract or securing a signed amendment.

Frequently asked questions