07/19/2026
Hiring a caregiver privately? Read this first!
Choosing a caregiver for a loved one is about more than finding someone kind—it's about protecting your family.
Before hiring directly, ask for:
-A current Vulnerable Sector Check
-Proof of liability insurance
-References
-Relevant training and experience
-Information about WSIB coverage
-A written agreement outlining duties, hours, and pay
Did you know?
If you hire a caregiver directly, you may be considered their employer under Ontario's Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA). Depending on the situation, you could be responsible for paying minimum wage, vacation pay, maintaining payroll records, meeting payroll deduction requirements, and providing a safe workplace under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
Examples:
• You hire a caregiver directly, set their schedule, and pay them yourself—you may have employer responsibilities.
•You hire someone without a Vulnerable Sector Check or insurance—if theft, injury, or property damage occurs, your family could face legal or financial risks.
• A caregiver is injured while working in your home—insurance and WSIB coverage can become very important.
Hiring through a reputable home care agency can help reduce these risks, as agencies typically complete background checks, verify qualifications, carry appropriate insurance, and manage employer responsibilities.
Protect your loved one. Protect yourself. Ask the right questions before you hire.
This post is for general information only and is not legal advice.
