Does California require a home care surety bond?

Yes. California requires a surety bond of $10,000. A Home Care Organization applicant must provide proof of an employee dishonesty bond, including third-party coverage, with a minimum limit of $10,000. This is a licensing requirement, not a Medicaid one.

For the license itself, see California home care agency licensing.

What is the difference between a surety bond and a fidelity bond?

A surety bond guarantees to the state or a payer that your agency will follow the rules or repay what it owes. A fidelity or employee dishonesty bond protects clients if a caregiver steals from them. Clients and referral sources often ask for the second even where the state requires neither.

What should you confirm with the state?

Starting January 1, 2027, SB 412 adds dementia care training before providing care and annually; confirm with the Home Care Services Branch whether this changes the required training hours. Aides must also show they are free of active tuberculosis.