-
Caregivers – compensation bullying
Hello, I currently have a practice of paying my caregivers every Friday. In recent months, the same individuals have developed a repeating habit of pressuring me for more frequent pay, pay on off days (other than Friday), advance pay, and different formats for pay (Zelle vs Cash app vs Venmo). Quite frankly it’s becoming a headache for me. Naturally I am on a fixed income and the random requests are making things confusing. How do you deal with payment pressures? Do you give in just to get to the bathroom? Thanks in advance for your thoughts!
-
3 Replies
-
Hi Lisa, I’m sorry to hear this. It sounds like these individuals are being unfair to you and acting unprofessionally. But I understand how tricky this can get when your well-being relies on their care, and you can’t afford to lose them. Have you explained that this is how you handle your caregiver business and what was agreed upon when they started the job? Do you have a contract they signed that states this? If not, that may be something to think about in the future.
Also, are you eligible for state-funded services so you wouldn’t have to pay out of pocket?
-
Thank you for your thoughts! I have a contract with two of them and I will make a point of looking for them to review. I stopped giving contracts because it felt like they never read them, but I agree that it helps too define the role better.
The same individuals have also requested to bring their children with during several shifts. This two is unfair as I pay the same rate and their time is split. I had the unfortunate incident of one 5 year-old son walk in on me in the bathroom.
To answer your question, I do not qualify for state services. I am at LTD since February 2023.
-
-
Ooh, sounds like something I would nip in the bud asap. It’s probably not intentional, but seems like they’re taking advantage of your kindheartedness. Over the years I’m becoming more inclined to do what makes my life easier versus what others prefer. They might balk a little at first but unless it’s something unreasonable most comply. Kindness does go a long way, so appreciation gestures are sometimes nice, but I’m talking a coffee or gift card not rescheduling payday.
I go through an agency, so payday is payday. Maybe that’s a good way to think of it though, like you’re the agency. I’m not aware of any that allow flexible pay schedules or bring your kid to work days. What would they do if you say no to their request?
Log in to reply.