Connecticut Caretaker Requirements
Everything an agency needs to hire compliant caretakers in Connecticut — and everything an individual needs to know before starting work.
Training
32h
Min Age
18
Pay
$16–24
TB Test
Yes
CPR
Yes
Verify Eligibility
Not required by most states for non-medical home care, but preferred by many agencies
Complete Background Checks & Screening
The hiring agency initiates and pays for these checks. All must clear before the caretaker has any client contact.
State and federal fingerprint-based background check
Not required by the state, but many agencies require a pre-employment drug test
Must be completed within 12 months of hire. Some agencies require annual rescreening.
Must be obtained before working with clients. American Heart Association or equivalent. Renewed every 2 years.
Complete Required Training
Agencies are responsible for providing or arranging this training. It must be completed before the caretaker works independently with clients.
Homemaker-Companion (HC)
Provides homemaker and companion services (non-medical).
32
Hours
Pre-service training
20 hoursHomemaker-companion basics, nutrition, safety, client communication
Annual in-service
12 hoursContinuing education on relevant care topics
Scope of Practice — What This Role Covers
Meet Additional State Requirements
Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Agencies must track these deadlines and ensure all staff remain compliant. Lapsed credentials can result in fines and loss of licensure.
Renewal & Continuing Education
Annual 12-hour in-service training; registry renewal required
Every 2 years
Annually or per agency policy
Regulatory Body
Average Hourly Pay
$16 – $24
per hour for non-medical care
Higher rates for weekends, overnights, and specialized care (dementia, hospice support). Urban areas typically pay 15–25% more than rural.
Demand Outlook
Strong — wealthy aging population with high care expectations
Home care is one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in the U.S. Demand is driven by the aging population and preference for aging in place.
Connecticut-Specific Notes
- 1Connecticut requires a Homemaker-Companion Agency license to operate
- 2Agencies must register caregivers on the DPH registry
- 3One of few states that distinguishes homemaker-companion from personal care aide at the regulatory level
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours are required for caretakers in Connecticut?
Connecticut requires 32 hours of pre-service training for Homemaker-Companions. This typically covers pre-service training, annual in-service. The hiring agency is responsible for providing or verifying this training.
What background checks are required for home care caretakers in Connecticut?
Connecticut requires: State and federal fingerprint-based background check. The hiring agency must complete all screening before the caretaker has any client contact. Drug testing policy: agency discretion.
How much do home care caretakers earn in Connecticut?
Non-medical home care caretakers in Connecticut earn $16–$24 per hour on average. Pay varies by region, experience, care complexity, and whether the shift is weekday vs weekend/overnight.
What is the minimum age to work as a caretaker in Connecticut?
You must be at least 18 years old to work as a non-medical home care caretaker in Connecticut. Most agencies also require a valid ID and legal work authorization.
What ongoing requirements do caretakers have in Connecticut?
Annual 12-hour in-service training; registry renewal required Agencies are responsible for tracking compliance and ensuring all staff maintain current credentials.
Managing caretaker compliance across your team?
HomeCareAtlas automatically tracks certifications, training deadlines, background check expirations, and renewal dates for every caretaker on your roster.
See how it worksThis guide is for informational purposes only. Requirements change — always verify with Connecticut Department of Public Health before starting training or employment. HomeCareAtlas is not a certifying body and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.