Private duty

duskyjewel · Mar 16, 2014

I've worked some private duty through my employer. Basically, a family pays to have you dedicated to the care of only their loved one. This can be in a home or in a facility. Depending on what's going on with them, private duty can range from so easy you almost feel guilty getting paid for it to running endlessly after a confused dementia patient. Since you have only one person, though, it's easier on you than working in a facility, and usually the acuity isn't very high, they just need safety monitoring.

shaylaaaa · Mar 16, 2014

Thanks a lot, I've read that you can't include private duty on taxes. Is this true?

duskyjewel · Mar 16, 2014

Since I'm paid through my employer and they take care of the withholding for me, I can't really answer that question. However, I'm pretty sure that any income you make from a regular occupation (as in, not occasional) needs to be reported to the IRS. Depending on what agency or whatever you work for, you may have to file as an independent contractor, but you do have to report the income. If you work as an independent contractor, though, the company or family should provide you with a 1099 form. If you're employed directly by a family, they are obligated to file as employers and pay payroll taxes, and give you a W2 form.

This kind of thing is why I ALWAYS use H&R Block software or online to do my taxes. I just answer questions and plug in information, and it figures out all the applicable laws and such for me.

Missingyou, CNA · Mar 19, 2014

Keep in mind that if you do private duty withOUT going through an agency (homecare)there are risks. If something should happen to that patient (fall) why they are in your care ,you can be sued by that family!! It happens!

Always go through an agency for private duty unless it is someone you know and trust. Also, if you work without an agency, the hours may not count towards your requirement for recertification..