Do you need a license to run a home care agency in New Hampshire?

Yes. New Hampshire requires a state license to run a non-medical home care agency: the Home Care Service Provider Agency (HCSPA) license, issued by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Health Facilities Administration. He-P 822 applies to any entity that provides personal care or homemaker services through employed personal care service providers or homemakers. Entities licensed as home health care providers under He-P 809 and agencies certified under RSA 161-H are excluded. New applicants must publish a public notice of intent in a newspaper in 2 separate issues at least 10 business days before filing.

What are the key facts?

How do you get licensed in New Hampshire?

1. Publish a notice of intent in a local newspaper in 2 separate issues at least 10 business days before applying
2. Get written local approvals from the health officer, building official, zoning officer, and fire chief
3. Submit the 'Application for Residential or Health Care License', proof of authorization from the NH secretary of state, the administrator's resume, and the fee
4. Pass the department's licensing inspection

What should you confirm with the state?

The rule also requires a health screening and two-step TB test before client contact, supervision of personal care providers every 6 months, and an annual evaluation. The fee wording is unclear for agencies serving 10 or fewer clients, so confirm your fee with the Health Facilities Administration. The rule doesn't say whether the Department of Safety check is fingerprint-based.

What should you budget for?

The license fee is a small part of startup cost. Insurance, payroll for your first caregivers before clients pay, and office staff usually cost far more. Use the bill rate calculator to check your pricing covers it, and the intake form and care plan templates for the paperwork inspectors ask to see.