TL;DR
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U.S. home care medians are ~$33–$34/hr; California trends higher.
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Your rate depends on tasks, weekly hours, nights/holidays, start speed, and complexity.
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Medicare typically does not cover custodial home care; families use private pay, LTC insurance, VA Aid & Attendance, or local programs.
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Use the calculator; then request a written quote. No long‑term contracts.
Tip: Many families combine non‑medical home care with short‑term Medicare home health when eligible.
California context
Higher than U.S. median
Start speed
24–48h (when available)
What drives your rate
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Care level: companionship vs. hands‑on personal care
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Hours/week + nights, weekends, holidays
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Urgent start & guaranteed coverage windows
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Complexity & risk (falls, dementia, two‑person transfers)
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Market factors (wages, insurance, travel)
Ways to pay
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Private pay (most common)
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Long‑Term Care (LTC) insurance
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VA Aid & Attendance (if eligible)
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Local aging programs & caregiver support
Medicare generally does not cover ongoing custodial home care; it may cover short‑term home health when ordered by a physician.
How to compare two quotes (fast)
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Tasks match: bathing, transfers, meds reminders, meals, safety
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Hours match by day, nights, weekends, holidays
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Start date & guaranteed coverage windows are explicit
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Rate rules: minimum hours/visit, cancellation, holiday rates
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Caregiver match process + background checks/training
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Contact & updates protocol: who calls/texts and how often