Private Caregiver Service Agreement

What a good one includes

• A detailed scope of daily caregiving duties, explicitly listing tasks like bathing, meal preparation, transportation, and medication management.
• A clear schedule detailing specific working hours, overnight expectations, and the process for requesting or scheduling time off.
• A comprehensive compensation structure that outlines the hourly rate, overtime pay, holiday rates, and how mileage or out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.
• An emergency contact and medical protocol sheet listing primary physicians, preferred hospitals, and authorized family decision-makers.
• A confidentiality and privacy clause to protect your loved one’s medical history, financial information, and personal dignity.
• A termination policy defining the required notice period for both parties and terms for immediate dismissal in cases of neglect or misconduct.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Failing to define clear boundaries around household chores, which often leads to 'job creep' where caregivers are expected to do heavy housekeeping unrelated to the patient's immediate care.
• Classifying the caregiver as an independent contractor instead of an employee, which can lead to serious tax penalties from the IRS.
• Omitting a policy on cell phone use and social media privacy, resulting in unwanted distractions or unauthorized photos of your loved one being shared online.
• Neglecting to establish a backup plan for when the primary caregiver is sick or unavailable, leaving your loved one suddenly without essential support.

Frequently asked questions