Does Connecticut require a home care surety bond?

Yes. Connecticut requires a surety bond of $10,000. Registered homemaker-companion agencies must keep a surety bond or insurance of at least $10,000 that covers theft by an employee from a client. This is a registration requirement.

For the license itself, see Connecticut 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?

Caregiver checks don't have to be fingerprint-based, but the agency owner must submit to state and national criminal history checks. If your agency will provide hands-on personal care beyond what the Department of Consumer Protection registration covers, confirm with the Department of Public Health whether you also need a home health aide agency license.