Independent companion caregiver for seniors

Adult children and families paying privately. Some clients use long-term care insurance or veterans' benefits, which may have their own rules.

Hourly rate, often with a minimum visit length. Overnight or live-in shifts can be priced separately. Regular weekly clients give steady income.

• Patience and empathy
• Reliable and trustworthy
• Basic cooking and housekeeping
• Comfortable with personal conversation and routines

• Some states require a license or registration even for non-medical home care, check with your state health or aging department
• General liability insurance, and ask about bonding for clients who give you keys
• Whether you are treated as an independent contractor or as a household employee for tax purposes, check with the IRS or an accountant
• Stay within your scope: personal care or medical tasks may need extra training or a license
• Emotionally and physically demanding work, plan breaks and backup cover

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on things like liability insurance and any bonding you choose. Costs also vary with the basic supplies and training you decide you need.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many regular clients you take and how many hours you work. Estimates start from about 10 hours a week.

Some states require a license or registration even for non-medical home care, so check with your state health or aging department. Also check liability insurance, how the IRS treats you for tax purposes, and your scope, since personal care may need extra training.