This article was written by a guest contributor, John Trompeter, the owner/operator of ComForCare of Wheaton, IL.
Choosing a caregiver through ComForCare was a smart decision—one that safeguards you from significant financial risks that you may not be aware of. People sometimes try to save money by hiring a caregiver “under the table” as an independent contractor—but there is danger in this.
In one case, a family hired a wonderful caregiver for their elderly father and paid her directly with personal checks. But then she suffered an injury while on the job.
She initially hesitated to take legal action. But she was unable to afford medical care, and then she was convinced by friends to sue the family—leaving them responsible for enormous medical bills.
This situation could have been avoided. Federal law requires home caregivers to be paid as W-2 employees, with proper tax withholdings. In Illinois, agencies like ours must carry workers’ compensation insurance, which covers workplace injuries.
No Coverage, Big Risk
Another little-known fact is that if you hire a caregiver as an independent contractor, your homeowner’s insurance provides ZERO coverage for workplace injuries. If they get hurt, you are personally responsible for all medical expenses.
In addition to that, every worker is protected by a multitude of government agencies that always favor the worker over the employer. These are agencies such as the Illinois Department of Labor, Department of Human Services, EEOC, OSHA, etc. It’s easy to file a complaint and very difficult for the employer—or the family—to get out from under it.
By choosing ComForCare, you ensure that your caregiver is properly classified and covered, protecting both them and yourself.
Thank you for trusting ComForCare. We provide not only exceptional care but also peace of mind.
By John Trompeter Owner/Operator, ComForCare of Wheaton