Most people get overwhelmed because they can’t see the whole path. Here is the full path, laid out from start to finish, with your part and our part at each step.
Step 1: Free Consultation
We talk about your goals, your background, the state where you want to open, and your questions. We go over what that state generally requires and which package might fit. You’ll get an honest picture, including the challenges.
Your part: Bring your questions and tell us your state and timeline.
Step 2: Business Setup
We help you work through the business registration steps and the back-office basics.
Your part: Make the business decisions (name, structure) and pay any filing fees. We recommend talking to an accountant or attorney about entity and tax choices.
Step 3: Policies, Procedures & Forms
We prepare a policies and procedures manual and operating forms based on your state’s current rules for non-medical home care. Before drafting, we confirm the current requirements with the state agency.
Your part: Review everything carefully. You’ll be running your agency by these policies, so it’s important that you understand them.
Step 4: License Application
We help you assemble and organize your application packet so it’s complete and consistent before you submit it. Depending on your state, the application may ask for things like ownership information, staff qualifications, insurance or bonding, and background checks.
Your part: Sign and submit the application, pay the state fees, and complete any state-required training, fingerprinting or background checks.
Step 5: State Review & Inspection
The state reviews your application. Depending on the state, this may include follow-up questions, an inspection, a survey or an interview. We help you get ready for it.
Your part: Respond promptly to the state and be available for any inspection or survey.
Step 6: Getting Ready to Operate
Once your state issues your license, you can begin hiring caregivers and serving clients. We provide hiring guidance, and Tier 2 and Tier 3 also include branding, a website and marketing materials. See our packages for details.
Your part: Recruit caregivers and find clients. Tip from experience: start planning how you’ll recruit caregivers well before you’re licensed. Clients don’t help if you have no one to send.
How Long Does It Take?
There is no single answer, because timelines vary by state and depend on how quickly the state processes applications and inspections, as well as how quickly each step gets done on your end.
We can’t speed up or control state processing. What we can do is help you submit a complete, organized application, which avoids delays caused by missing paperwork. We’ll talk about what to expect in your state during your consultation, and you can read more on our States & Licensing page.
What We Don’t Do
- We’re not a government agency, and we don’t issue licenses or decide applications.
- We don’t provide legal, tax or accounting advice.
- We don’t guarantee approval, timelines, clients or income.
Our work focuses on non-medical home care agencies.
Take the First Step
The first step is a conversation. It’s free, and you can ask anything.