Attendant questions and answers
The questions attendants ask us most. If yours is not here, call (314) 809-6655.
Attendant FAQ
Do I need a CNA license or any certification?
No. CDS is non-medical personal care. You need work authorization, background clearance and our orientation — not a nursing credential. See the full requirements.
Can I be paid to care for my own mother or father?
Yes. Missouri law excludes only the consumer’s spouse. Parents, adult children, siblings and other relatives can all be paid attendants. How family caregiving works.
Can I be paid to care for my husband or wife?
No. The spousal exclusion is in RSMo 208.900 and there is no waiver for it.
Am I an employee or a contractor?
An employee. We withhold taxes and issue a W-2. You will not get a 1099 and you will not owe self-employment tax on this work. Pay and payroll detail.
What does the job pay?
Rates depend on program reimbursement and the terms agreed at hire, and they change over time. We tell you the current rate when we speak rather than publishing a number here that could go stale.
How many hours will I get?
That is capped by the consumer’s authorized care plan, which the Department of Health and Senior Services sets. It is not something we or the consumer can increase at will.
How long does background screening take?
It varies, and it is the step most likely to delay your start. Apply early, and disclose anything on your record up front — a disclosed record is a conversation, an undisclosed one ends the process.
Can I work for more than one consumer?
Generally yes, within each consumer’s authorized hours and provided the schedules genuinely do not overlap. Overlapping claims are a fraud flag.
What if the consumer asks me to do something outside the care plan?
Politely decline and call us. Only authorized tasks are billable, and doing unauthorized work puts your pay and the consumer’s services at risk.
What if I am asked to do something medical?
Decline and call us. Attendants do not give injections, do sterile wound care, manage IVs or provide therapy. If clinical care is needed, it is a different benefit.
Do I need a car?
Not required, but useful — essential transportation is one of the authorized task categories. If you will drive, you need a valid license and insurance.
What happens if the consumer goes into hospital?
You cannot bill for time while they are an inpatient. Tell us as soon as you know, so nothing is claimed by mistake.
Can I quit?
Yes — you are an employee, not indentured. Give as much notice as you can. The person you care for depends on continuity, and an abrupt departure leaves them without help.
Still have a question?
Call (314) 809-6655 for a free consultation, or text (314) 886-5902. We serve St. Louis City, St. Louis County and Missouri communities within about 40 miles of our office.