Practical guide

Home-care agency interview checklist

Questions to ask a Vermont home-care agency about caregivers, schedules, supervision, fees and backup coverage.

A strong agency conversation covers who will provide care, how they are screened and supervised, what tasks are permitted, how schedules are covered and exactly how fees and cancellations work.

Vermont-focused guidanceReviewed August 16, 2026

Caregivers and supervision

Are caregivers employees or independent contractors?
What screening and training are required?
Who supervises the plan and handles concerns?
How are caregiver changes communicated?

Scheduling and backup

What are the minimum shift and weekly requirements?
How are weekends, holidays and overnights handled?
What happens if the scheduled caregiver calls out?
Can hours change as needs change?

Agreement and costs

Request the rate sheet and written service agreement
Review cancellation and termination terms
Ask about mileage, transportation and holiday charges
Confirm insurance and complaint procedures

Source transparency

Sources and review

Reviewed August 16, 2026. This general guidance is checked against relevant Vermont and federal resources; provider details, rules and programs can change.

Questions families ask

Frequently asked questions

Is home care the same as home health care?

No. Non-medical home care can help with companionship, personal routines, meals, errands and day-to-day support. Home health care is clinical care ordered or provided through licensed medical professionals.

How quickly can home care begin?

Timing depends on the service, schedule, location and provider availability. A care conversation can clarify what is needed and which providers may be able to help, but start dates are never guaranteed.

Can care be arranged for only a few hours?

Some agencies offer shorter visits while others require minimum shifts or weekly hours. Ask about minimums, weekend policies and schedule changes before signing an agreement.

How are home-care agencies compared?

Compare the agency's service territory, caregiver employment and screening, training, supervision, minimum shifts, backup coverage, written rates and complaint process. Participation on this site is not a guarantee that an agency is right for a particular person.

Does non-medical home care include nursing?

No. Non-medical care does not include skilled nursing simply because it occurs at home. Ask a qualified clinician or home-health provider about services that require clinical assessment, orders or licensed medical professionals.

One clear next step

Tell us what kind of help you are considering.

Choose help at home, a community or “not sure.” No medical records are needed.

Find care in Vermont