How to Choose a Home Care Agency in Georgetown
Seven questions that separate the great agencies from the risky ones — and the red flags to walk away from.
Every agency's website says “compassionate, trusted care.” The differences that actually matter show up in the answers to seven specific questions. Here's what to ask — and what the answers mean.
The seven questions
- “What's your HCSSA license number?” Texas requires a Home and Community Support Services Agency license for personal care. Verify it on the Texas HHS website. Hesitation here ends the conversation.
- “Are caregivers your employees, or independent contractors?” Employees means the agency handles payroll taxes, workers' comp, liability insurance, and supervision. Contractor-model “registries” can leave you legally exposed as the household employer without realizing it.
- “What happens when my caregiver is sick?” The right answer is a named backup process and a deep enough bench. “We'll try to find someone” means Mom is alone that day.
- “Who supervises the care plan?” Good agencies do a home assessment, write a care plan, and have a supervisor who checks in — not just a scheduler who fills shifts.
- “What are your real, all-in rates?” Get hourly rates, visit minimums, weekend/holiday premiums, and mileage policies in writing. Our cost guide tells you what Georgetown rates should look like, so you'll recognize an outlier.
- “How do you match caregivers — and what if it's not a fit?” Personality fit drives success as much as skill. You want a free, no-friction replacement policy.
- “Can you handle needs changing?” If companion care may become personal care or dementia care, confirm the agency staffs those levels so you're not switching providers mid-decline.
Red flags
- Won't provide a license number or proof of insurance
- Quotes a price without ever assessing your loved one
- Cash-only, contracts with long lock-ins, or big prepayments
- Caregivers are contractors but the agency won't say so plainly
- No supervisor ever visits the home
Or let us shortcut it
This vetting is exactly what we do all day. We only refer Georgetown families to licensed agencies that employ, screen, insure, and supervise their caregivers — and we'll tell you their real rates up front. It costs you nothing to ask.
Common questions
How do I verify a Texas agency's license?
Ask for the HCSSA license number and check it on the Texas Health and Human Services license search. Refusal is disqualifying.
Should I hire an independent caregiver instead?
Cheaper per hour, but you become the employer — taxes, liability, screening, no backup. Usually a poor trade for complex or growing needs.
What should I ask an agency?
License, employment model, background checks, backup coverage, supervision, minimums, all-in pricing, and replacement policy.