Massachusetts Caretaker Requirements
Everything an agency needs to hire compliant caretakers in Massachusetts — and everything an individual needs to know before starting work.
Training
24h
Min Age
18
Pay
$17–26
TB Test
Yes
CPR
Yes
Verify Eligibility
Not required by most states for non-medical home care, but preferred by many agencies
Complete Background Checks & Screening
The hiring agency initiates and pays for these checks. All must clear before the caretaker has any client contact.
CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) check + SORI (Sex Offender Registry)
Not required by the state, but many agencies require a pre-employment drug test
Must be completed within 12 months of hire. Some agencies require annual rescreening.
Must be obtained before working with clients. American Heart Association or equivalent. Renewed every 2 years.
Complete Required Training
Agencies are responsible for providing or arranging this training. It must be completed before the caretaker works independently with clients.
Personal Care Aide (PCA)
Non-medical aide providing personal care under agency supervision.
24
Hours
PCA Training Program
12 hoursAgency-provided training in personal care, safety, and communication
Annual in-service
12 hoursContinuing education
Scope of Practice — What This Role Covers
Meet Additional State Requirements
Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Agencies must track these deadlines and ensure all staff remain compliant. Lapsed credentials can result in fines and loss of licensure.
Renewal & Continuing Education
Annual 12 hours of in-service training
Every 2 years
Annually or per agency policy
Regulatory Body
Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services
Employment type: W-2 Employee
Visit official websiteAverage Hourly Pay
$17 – $26
per hour for non-medical care
Higher rates for weekends, overnights, and specialized care (dementia, hospice support). Urban areas typically pay 15–25% more than rural.
Demand Outlook
Very strong — wealthy aging population with high care expectations
Home care is one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in the U.S. Demand is driven by the aging population and preference for aging in place.
Massachusetts-Specific Notes
- 1Massachusetts has among the highest training requirements for personal care
- 2MassHealth (Medicaid) PCA program is one of the largest in the nation
- 3Boston metro commands the highest rates
Frequently Asked Questions
How many training hours are required for caretakers in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires 24 hours of pre-service training for Personal Care Aides. This typically covers pca training program, annual in-service. The hiring agency is responsible for providing or verifying this training.
What background checks are required for home care caretakers in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires: CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) check + SORI (Sex Offender Registry). The hiring agency must complete all screening before the caretaker has any client contact. Drug testing policy: agency discretion.
How much do home care caretakers earn in Massachusetts?
Non-medical home care caretakers in Massachusetts earn $17–$26 per hour on average. Pay varies by region, experience, care complexity, and whether the shift is weekday vs weekend/overnight.
What is the minimum age to work as a caretaker in Massachusetts?
You must be at least 18 years old to work as a non-medical home care caretaker in Massachusetts. Most agencies also require a valid ID and legal work authorization.
What ongoing requirements do caretakers have in Massachusetts?
Annual 12 hours of in-service training Agencies are responsible for tracking compliance and ensuring all staff maintain current credentials.
Managing caretaker compliance across your team?
HomeCareAtlas automatically tracks certifications, training deadlines, background check expirations, and renewal dates for every caretaker on your roster.
See how it worksThis guide is for informational purposes only. Requirements change — always verify with Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services before starting training or employment. HomeCareAtlas is not a certifying body and does not guarantee the accuracy of this information.