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Hiring guide

How to hire an in-home caregiver you can trust

Bringing someone into your loved one's home is a big decision. Here's a calm, step-by-step way to do it well, and feel confident about who you chose.

1

Get clear on what you need

Write down the day-to-day: what help is needed (companionship, meals, bathing, mobility, memory support), the schedule, and what a good day looks like for your loved one. This becomes your job description and helps caregivers picture the role.

2

Find good candidates

The best caregivers come from vetted, trusted sources. Browse a directory of background-checked caregivers near you, ask people you trust, and reach out to local CNA and nursing programs. You can also post your own job and share the link with your community.

3

Interview, and ask real situations

Experience matters, but how someone thinks matters more. Alongside "tell me about your experience," ask what they would actually do:

  • If my mother asked you the same question over and over, how would you respond?
  • If she refused your help or got upset, what would you do?
  • If she seemed more confused or unwell than usual, what are your first steps?
  • If she fell during your shift, what would you do?

You're listening for patience, honesty, and judgment, not perfect answers. Watching a short video interview first can tell you a lot before you ever talk.

4

Check references

Call at least two, ideally past employers or families they've cared for. Ask: were they reliable? How did they handle a hard moment? Would you hire them again for your own family? Listen for hesitation as much as words.

5

Run a background check

For anyone new to your family, a background check is inexpensive peace of mind. The caregiver consents, and you look for anything that would genuinely affect safety. Never decide based on a name-match alone, and follow fair, lawful steps.

6

Do a paid trial shift

Before committing, pay for a few hours together. You'll learn more from one real shift, how they are with your loved one, than from any interview.

7

Put it in writing

A simple agreement keeps everyone comfortable: who, the schedule, the pay and how often, the main duties, and a start date. It doesn't need to be formal, just clear.

One more thing, taxes. When you pay a caregiver directly above a yearly threshold, you may become a "household employer." It's very manageable, and many families use a payroll service. A quick chat with a tax professional keeps it clean.

Trust your gut

You can do everything right on paper and still feel unsure, or feel instantly at ease. That feeling matters. This is someone who will be alone with the person you love. If something feels off, keep looking. If it feels right and the references and check hold up, you've probably found your person.

Everything you need, in one place.

HomeTogether Hire gives you vetted caregivers with video interviews, ready-made interview questions, background checks, and a place to score and compare everyone you meet. $25/month, cancel anytime.

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Common questions

How do I find a trustworthy caregiver?

Start with vetted sources, a background-checked directory, trusted referrals, local CNA programs. Interview, call references, and run a background check before anyone starts.

What should I ask in the interview?

Ask real situations (the repeated question, refusing care, a fall, a sudden change) and listen for patience and judgment. A video interview first tells you a lot.

Should I run a background check?

Yes, for anyone new to your family. It's inexpensive, the caregiver consents, and any decision based on it should follow fair, lawful steps.

This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. For household-employer tax questions, consult a tax professional.