What is the norm regarding salary for live in caregivers when considering rent; pay them their salary as per location standard and have them pay me rent separately for the room they reside in and utility use? OR pay them a reduced salary which takes into consideration the cost of room rental and utility use?
If there are other options of best practices, please advise.
Also have a very clear written care giver agreement that states hours, expectations of work to be done, use of personal vehicle, use of clients vehicle, guests and more.
Included in hours would be days off, holiday time, sick time, time for personal appointments etc.
I would see a lawyer about a contract and a CPA about how to handle the deductions. I would also make sure that the person you hire has somewhere to go if this doesn't work out. That she/he does not bring anyone into the household to live. There are horror stories on this forum where aides move in families. Take over. You need to go into this agreement with open eyes.
Also, being a live in does not mean they work 24/7. Like any employee, they need time off. So additional aides have to be considered. It may work out better to have shifts.