Can a home care agency make caregivers sign a non-compete in Ohio?

Generally enforceable if reasonable. Ohio has no general non-compete statute. Courts enforce covenants that are no greater than needed to protect the employer's legitimate interests, do not impose undue hardship on the employee, and do not harm the public, and they may rewrite overbroad terms. Courts consider factors such as whether the employee was the sole contact with customers. There is no wage threshold.

What about a client hiring your caregiver directly?

That is usually handled in the client service agreement, not the caregiver's contract: some agencies charge a placement or conversion fee if a client hires a caregiver directly. Whether that clause is enforceable is a contract question, so have a local employment lawyer review it.

What should you confirm?

Based on Ohio case law summarized in a law firm survey. Ohio has considered bills to restrict non-competes; none was enacted as of the survey date (July 2026).

General information, not legal advice.