I was an aide forty years ago, before I went into the army and became an xray tech. I'll be 65 soon, and have worked in the pet care field for many years. I was badly attacked by a dog a few months ago, and I want to get out of that business!
Should I consult our elder care atty. about how to get paid? I'm their POA and I pay all their bills, so I could just write myself a small check every week. However, I think I need to document my pay for when Medicaid is needed. Advice?
It would also be wise to check with an accountant to determine what forms need to be filled out for paying taxes. (or State Labor Board)
Many facilities do not allow you to hire outside help they have their own list of Private Duty Aides if they are needed. (this is why they might not allow you to do this...I am sure they get a "kick back" from the agency that they get them from)..ok call me a cynic.
This you would have to definitely talk to a lawyer about. If you were taking care of your parents in their home or yours, I see no problem. But they are getting care. You being there may not be looked at as a necessary expense. Then its the Nursing Home allowing you to be there in that capacity. It could be a liability for them since you are not an employee. It would not hurt to ask.
If its not in the POA, you can't get paid. How long does it take you to write a check? How would you determine how much writing a check is worth? What other duties do u perform as a POA? Do they still have a home that needs upkeep? Are you in charge of investments that need to be watched? I may sound a little harsh but there are POAs that do much more than write a check and do not get paid.
Your biggest responsibility is done, parents are in a NH. It is so easy to pay bills now. Automatic withdrawals. Online banking. And now apps. My grandson just bought a car and first thing he asked was if the financing company had an app.
Talk to the lawyer and run it by him. Because it will effect their Medicaid if there is not something in writing.