Is Care.com Legit?

If you're wondering whether Care.com is a trustworthy platform for finding caregivers or job opportunities, you're not alone. Millions of families and caregivers use it every year, but is it safe? Care.com offers a wide range of services, from childcare to eldercare, but before signing up, it’s important to know the facts. This Care.com review breaks down everything you need to know—its safety features, pricing, and most importantly, its legitimacy. Is it truly safe for both families and caregivers? Can you trust the job postings? We’ll also cover the hidden risks, including common scams that users should watch out for. Let’s dive into this comprehensive guide and find out if Care.com is the right choice for you.

Key Takeaways

• Safety First: Care.com implements safety checks for caregivers and families, but it’s important to stay vigilant.
• Membership Fees: Care.com offers paid memberships with different plans for families and caregivers.
• Scam Awareness: Be cautious of scams and follow safety tips to protect yourself on the platform.
• Service Variety: From childcare to eldercare, Care.com provides a wide range of services, but alternatives may be a better fit for some.
• Worth It or Not: Depending on your needs, Care.com can be a valuable tool, but it’s important to evaluate the cost and service offerings carefully.

What is Care.com?

Care.com is a popular online marketplace that connects families with caregivers for a wide range of needs. Whether you need childcare, senior care, special needs support, pet care, or housekeeping, Care.com brings together families and qualified caregivers in one place. Since its founding in 2006, it has been an easy-to-use platform, where you can search for caregivers in your area, check their profiles, and read reviews to make an informed decision.

Overview of Care.com and its Services

Care.com offers a flexible and affordable way to find in-home care. You can post a job or browse caregiver profiles for services like childcare, eldercare, pet care, and housekeeping. Many caregivers on the platform hold certifications such as CPR, CNA, or LVN, and you can view their experience, skills, and hourly rates directly on their profiles. The platform supports families across the U.S. and in 21 other countries, making it a global leader in care solutions.

A standout feature is the variety of care options. You can find caregivers for everything from daily companionship for seniors to specialized care for those with memory issues or mobility challenges. The service is especially helpful for families who want their loved ones to age in place, instead of moving to assisted living facilities.

How Care.com Works for Families

For families, Care.com simplifies the process of finding safe and reliable care. You start by creating an account and completing a short screening quiz about your needs. The platform then matches you with local caregivers who meet your criteria. You can view their experience, hourly rates, ratings, and even see if they have background checks.

To contact caregivers, you need a paid membership. Membership fees range from $12.95 to $38.95 per month, depending on the package you choose. Once you connect, you can interview caregivers, negotiate rates, and arrange schedules directly. Caregivers set their own rates, which start as low as $14 per hour, making it an affordable alternative to traditional home care agencies.

Families appreciate the flexibility Care.com offers. You can find one-time help, part-time, or full-time care, and even arrange for last-minute support. However, it’s important to do your own due diligence. While Care.com does background checks, they are not always mandatory, so always verify credentials and references for peace of mind.

How Care.com Works for Caregivers

Care.com is also a valuable platform for caregivers seeking jobs. As a caregiver, you create a profile highlighting your skills, certifications, and experience. You can apply for jobs posted by families or respond to direct inquiries. The platform allows you to set your own rates and availability, giving you control over your work schedule.

However, recent reports highlight some concerns. In August 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) fined Care.com $8.5 million for deceptive marketing practices, including inflating job numbers and making baseless earnings claims to caregivers. Some caregivers have reported that the actual number of available jobs may not match what’s advertised, and that cancelling paid memberships can be difficult. Still, many caregivers find meaningful work and build lasting relationships with families through the platform.

Is Care.com Safe to Use?

When you think about hiring a caregiver or finding a job as a babysitter, safety comes first. Care.com is one of the most popular care platforms, but you might wonder, “Is Care.com legit and safe?” Let’s break it down in simple terms so you feel confident about your next step. I’ll share real stats, honest reviews, and practical safety tips, so you get a complete picture.

How Safe is Care.com for Families and Careseekers?

Care.com connects families with caregivers for childcare, eldercare, pet care, and housekeeping. The platform requires all caregivers to complete a basic background check called CareCheck before they can interact with families. This check covers criminal records from the last seven years and verifies Social Security numbers. If a caregiver passes, their profile displays a CareCheck badge with the date it was completed.

However, Care.com recommends that families do their own background checks for extra peace of mind. The company’s own checks may not be as thorough as you want, and they don’t share full reports due to privacy rules. Some families have experienced issues, including theft or worse, when relying only on the site’s vetting process. So, always ask for references, run your own checks, and trust your instincts.

User reviews show mixed experiences. On Trustpilot, Care.com scores 2.3 out of 5 stars from over 4,600 reviews, with only 15% giving five stars and 73% giving one star. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating is even lower, at 1.61 out of 5 stars from 747 reviews. Many complaints mention problems with membership fees, difficulty canceling, and some questionable caregiver profiles.

How Safe is Care.com for Babysitters, Nannies, and Caregivers?

If you’re a caregiver, safety matters just as much. Care.com offers resources and safety tips to help you avoid scams and unsafe situations. You should never accept advance payments, large checks, or requests to buy items or accept deliveries for families-these are common scam tactics. Always meet families in public places first and trust your gut if something feels off.

Care.com does not guarantee jobs, and some caregivers report that job postings can be misleading. Still, many caregivers find real, rewarding jobs through the platform. The site encourages you to stay alert, communicate clearly, and use its tools to protect yourself.

Safety Measures and Background Checks on Care.com

Care.com’s main safety feature is the CareCheck background check, which every caregiver must complete before connecting with families. This check reviews criminal records and verifies identity. For those who want more, Care.com offers additional background checks, including driving history and civil records, for an extra fee. The most thorough option is the Investigative Criminal Plus Check, which uses licensed private investigators for a deeper look.

Remember, no background check is perfect. Records might not be complete, and some offenses may not show up, especially if they happened before the person turned 18. That’s why Care.com also recommends that families:

• Interview caregivers in person.
• Check references.
• Set clear safety expectations.
• Use home security measures like cameras if needed.

For babysitters and nannies, it’s smart to ask families for their own references and to clarify house rules and emergency contacts before starting any job. Open communication about expectations, allergies, emergency procedures, and safety protocols helps everyone feel secure.

What Are People Saying About Care.com?

Care.com is a platform that connects families with caregivers for a range of services including childcare, eldercare, and housekeeping. But is it truly as reliable as it promises? Let’s dive into what real users think about Care.com—the good, the bad, and the ugly—so you can make an informed decision.

Care.com Positive Reviews

Here’s what some users are saying about their positive experiences with Care.com on Trustpilot:

1. Stacy Lynne (US): Rated 5/5 stars – “I found some jobs here, I needed some extra money to pay for a procedure.”
Stacy found caregiving opportunities through Care.com that helped her during a challenging time, highlighting the platform’s ability to connect people with caregiver jobs quickly.

2. Shannon Myers (US): Rated 5/5 stars – “Overall, it’s a great service. I love that they do background checks on every caregiver. I don’t trust other sites because they don’t background check and I worry about bad people watching over my daughter.”
Shannon’s review emphasizes the importance of Care.com’s background check system, which is a key element that many families appreciate for ensuring safe caregivers.

3. Jacqueline Counts (US): Rated 5/5 stars – “Care.com has been amazing for us! We are so grateful for the caregiver, Stella, who has been wonderful with our aunt who suffers from LB Dementia.”
Jacqueline’s review speaks volumes about the caregivers on Care.com. Stella’s personal commitment and expertise in eldercare made a significant difference in Jacqueline’s family’s care journey.

4. Linda Borden (US): Rated 5/5 stars – “The process of finding a caregiver for my elderly mom was easy, and the caregiver is great about communicating with me. My mom really likes her!”
Linda’s review is a testament to the ease of Care.com’s platform, making it simpler for families to find suitable caregivers. Care.com services can be a huge relief for families struggling with eldercare needs.

Care.com Negative Reviews

However, not all feedback is positive. Here’s a look at some of the negative experiences shared by users:

1. Natasha Naunton-Lightfoot (GB): Rated 1/5 stars – “Beware this is a subscription service. I didn’t realize it was an auto-renewing subscription. No reminders, and customer service refused to refund me.”
Natasha’s review warns about Care.com’s membership fees and the automatic renewal policy, which has caused frustration for some users. It’s essential to read the fine print to avoid unexpected charges.

2. Laura Savitskie (US): Rated 1/5 stars – “I paid for the premium membership hoping to find a caregiver quickly, but was removed from the community after they took our money. No refund!”
Laura’s experience raises concerns about Care.com’s customer service and handling of transactions. She highlights a troubling situation where payment was taken but the user was locked out with no explanation.

3. V. Jovanovic (US): Rated 1/5 stars – “I paid for a full year’s membership, and after two months, my account was flagged for violating community guidelines without any explanation.”
V. Jovanovic’s feedback reveals a lack of transparency in Care.com’s policies. Users are left in the dark when their accounts are suspended or flagged, which can be incredibly frustrating, especially after paying for a membership.

4. Michele Einspar (US): Rated 1/5 stars – “My account was suddenly removed, and I was unable to reach customer service. My family was in urgent need of caregiving services.”
Michele’s experience highlights concerns about Care.com’s customer service responsiveness, especially in urgent situations. Families in need of caregivers may find this lack of support stressful.

Analyzing User Feedback on Trustworthiness and Safety

Based on the Care.com reviews, it’s clear that the platform has earned both high praise and criticism. The positive feedback mainly revolves around Care.com’s ability to provide trustworthy caregivers, especially in the realms of childcare and eldercare. The background check system is a significant plus for families, giving them confidence in the caregivers they hire.

However, the negative reviews raise valid concerns about Care.com’s business practices, including unclear membership fees and automatic renewals that catch some users by surprise. Additionally, the lack of customer support and unexplained account suspensions have left some families in a vulnerable position, with no clear resolution. If you choose to use Care.com, be cautious about your subscription and always review the terms before committing.

What are the Costs of Using Care.com?

If you’re searching for trustworthy care services, knowing the actual costs is key. Care.com offers a flexible pricing structure, but it’s important to understand what you get for your money and what extra fees might pop up. Let’s break down Care.com pricing in a way that’s easy to follow, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your family or your job search.

Care.com Membership Fees and Plans

Care.com uses a subscription based membership model for families who want to connect with caregivers. You can browse caregiver profiles for free, but to contact and hire someone, you need a paid membership. Here’s what you can expect for 2025:

• Monthly Plan: $38.95 per month. This is great if you only need help for a short time or want to try the service before committing long-term.
• Quarterly Plan: $24.95 per month, billed every three months. This saves you about 36% compared to the monthly plan.
• Annual Plan: $12.95 per month, billed annually. This is the best deal if you know you’ll need care for several months or have ongoing needs.

Occasionally, Care.com offers special promotions or first-month deals, so keep an eye out for discounts.

What’s Included in the Membership?

With a paid Care.com membership, you unlock features that make finding care much easier:

• Unlimited messaging with caregivers
• Ability to post jobs and receive applications
• Access to caregiver reviews and ratings
• Option to request and view background checks
• Access to the Care Safety Center for tips and resources
• Real-time payments to caregivers through the platform

You get peace of mind by being able to compare caregivers, check their credentials, and communicate directly. This helps you find the right fit for your family’s needs.

Are There Free Options on Care.com?

Yes, you can use Care.com for free with a basic membership. Here’s what you get:

• Ability to browse caregiver profiles
• Post jobs and receive applications
• Access to some resources and newsletters

However, free accounts have limitations. You can’t message caregivers directly or access full background check info. To unlock the full experience and hire with confidence, a paid membership is usually necessary.

What Are Care.com’s Pros and Cons?

If you’re trying to decide if Care.com is legit and right for your family or career, you need a clear look at the good and the bad. Let’s break down the real pros and cons of Care.com, using honest reviews, stats, and facts so you can make the best decision for your needs.

Pros of Using Care.com

• Wide Range of Services: Care.com connects families with caregivers for childcare, eldercare, pet care, housekeeping, tutoring, and more. You find everything in one place, making it a true one-stop solution for care needs.
• Flexible Options: You get to choose the type of care, schedule, and even negotiate rates directly with caregivers. This flexibility is great for families with changing needs or those who want their loved ones to age in place instead of moving to a facility.
• Affordable Pricing: Hourly rates for caregivers start as low as $14, which is often cheaper than traditional home care agencies. You only pay for the care you need, and there are different membership plans to fit your budget.
• Large Pool of Caregivers and Jobs: With millions of users, you have access to a huge database of caregivers and job postings. Whether you’re a family or a caregiver, you find plenty of options to choose from.
• Verified Caregivers: All caregivers complete a background check before they can connect with families. Some even have certifications like RN or CNA, so you can find skilled professionals for specialized care.
• Easy to Use: The website and app are user-friendly. You can post jobs, browse profiles, and communicate with caregivers or families easily.
• Resource Center: Care.com offers guides, safety tips, and hiring advice to help you make informed decisions and stay safe during your search.

Cons of Using Care.com

• Membership Fees Required: You must pay for a premium membership to contact caregivers or families. Free accounts let you browse, but you can’t actually connect without paying. Membership costs range from $12.95 to $38.95 per month.
• Extra Costs for Background Checks: While a basic check is included, you pay extra for enhanced background checks or additional screening. This can add up if you want more peace of mind.
• Mixed Reviews and Trust Issues: Care.com has a low customer rating-2.3 out of 5 on Trustpilot and 1.57 out of 5 on BBB. Many complaints mention billing issues, hard-to-cancel memberships, and some deceptive marketing practices. In 2024, Care.com settled with the FTC for $8.5 million due to misleading advertising and membership problems.
• Not All Caregivers Are Ideal: Some families report hiring caregivers who didn’t meet expectations or had concerning backgrounds. Always check references and do your own vetting, even after a background check.
• Lack of Transparency: Care.com doesn’t clearly list all membership prices on its website. You often need to create an account to see full pricing details, which can be frustrating for new users.
• Not BBB Accredited: Care.com is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau, which may raise concerns for some users.

5 Common Care.com Scams to Be Aware Of

If you’re wondering, “Is Care.com legit?” you’re not alone. While Care.com is a real platform that connects families and caregivers, scams can still happen. Knowing the red flags helps you stay safe and avoid losing money or personal information. Here are the most common Care.com scams you should watch out for:

1. Too-Good-to-Be-True Job Offers: If a job posting promises high pay, flexible hours, and little work, be cautious. Scammers often lure caregivers with offers that sound amazing but are completely fake. If it feels off, trust your gut.
2. Requests for Personal Information: Never share your Social Security number, bank details, or a copy of your driver’s license with someone you haven’t met in person and haven’t officially started working for. Real families don’t need this information upfront. Care.com only asks for your SSN for their own secure background check process.
3. Overpayment or Advance Payment Scams: Scammers might send you a check for more than you’re owed and ask you to send the extra money back. The check will bounce, and you’ll lose the money you sent. Never accept or deposit checks from someone you haven’t met or worked for.
4. Requests to Move Off the Platform: If someone asks you to communicate outside Care.com (like email or text) before you’ve met or finalized a job, it’s a red flag. Scammers do this to avoid detection and scam warnings on the platform.
5. Identity Theft Scams: If a family asks for a selfie with your ID or wants you to send personal photos, don’t do it. This is a common trick to steal your identity or use your photos for other scams.

Top Safety Tips for Caregivers and Families

Staying safe on Care.com is possible if you follow a few simple rules. Here’s how both caregivers and families can protect themselves from scams and risky situations.

How Caregivers Can Protect Themselves

• Keep Communication on Care.com: Use the platform’s messaging system until you’ve met the family in person. This helps Care.com monitor for scams and keeps your info private.
• Never Share Sensitive Info: Don’t give out your SSN, banking info, or copies of your ID to anyone except through Care.com’s secure system for background checks.
• Meet in Public First: Arrange the first meeting in a public place or bring a friend along. Trust your instincts-if something feels wrong, walk away.
• Don’t Accept Advance Payments: If someone offers to pay you before you start or sends you extra money, it’s likely a scam. Only accept payment after you’ve worked and through secure methods.
• Check Job Details: Look for odd language, rushed timelines, or requests to buy gift cards or send money. These are all classic scam tactics.

How Families Can Protect Themselves from Scams

• Verify Caregiver Backgrounds: Use Care.com’s background check options and ask for references. Don’t rely only on what’s listed in the profile.
• Set Clear Expectations: Share house rules, emergency contacts, and safety protocols with your caregiver. This keeps everyone on the same page and helps avoid misunderstandings.
• Keep Payment Secure: Pay caregivers through Care.com’s payment system or another secure method. Never send cash or wire money to someone you haven’t met.
• Monitor Communication: Be wary if a caregiver pushes to move off the platform or seems too eager to start without meeting. Scammers often try to rush the process.
• Discuss Emergency Plans: Make sure your caregiver knows what to do in case of fire, medical emergency, or other urgent situations. This keeps your loved ones safe and prepared.

Reporting Scams and Fraud on Care.com

If you spot a scam or feel uncomfortable, report it right away. Care.com has tools for flagging suspicious profiles and job postings. You can also contact their support team directly. If you lose money or suspect fraud, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and notify your bank or payment provider to stop or reverse transactions if possible.

Care.com Alternatives

Looking for Care.com alternatives? Maybe you want more options, better pricing, or a different user experience. Whether you’re a family searching for safe caregivers or a caregiver looking for trustworthy jobs, knowing your choices helps you find the perfect fit. Let’s explore the top Care.com alternatives for both families and caregivers, so you get a complete solution for your care needs.

Top Alternatives to Care.com for Families

Families want peace of mind, affordable options, and a simple way to connect with reliable caregivers. Here are some of the best Care.com alternatives in 2025:

• Sittercity: Sittercity is a long-standing platform that matches families with babysitters, nannies, and even pet sitters. It offers background checks, user reviews, and flexible search filters. Many parents like Sittercity for its transparent pricing and strong safety features.
• UrbanSitter: UrbanSitter stands out for its network-based approach. You can see which sitters your friends, neighbors, or parents from your child’s school have used. This social proof builds trust and makes the hiring process easier.
• Nanny Lane: Nanny Lane helps families find nannies for full-time, part-time, or nanny-share arrangements. It offers payroll support and contracts, making it a great choice for long-term care needs.
• Rover: If you need pet care, Rover is a top choice. It connects you with trusted pet sitters and dog walkers in your area. The app makes booking, payments, and communication simple and secure.
• Grayce: Grayce focuses on family care and support, especially for eldercare and complex family situations. It offers personalized solutions and expert guidance, making it ideal for families with unique needs.
• Gotcare: Gotcare provides a platform for families to book in-home care and navigate health support services. It’s especially strong in connecting clients to local support workers for eldercare and special needs.
• Joshin: Joshin specializes in care for neurodivergent individuals and families with disabilities. It offers virtual coaching, digital programs, and caregiver matching for specialized needs.

Top Alternatives to Care.com for Caregivers

Caregivers want platforms with real job opportunities, fair pay, and a safe experience. Here are some of the top Care.com competitors for caregivers:

• Sittercity: Sittercity gives caregivers access to a large pool of job postings for babysitting, nannying, and pet care. You can create a profile, set your rates, and apply for jobs that match your skills.
• UrbanSitter: UrbanSitter lets caregivers build their reputation through parent reviews and social connections. The more positive ratings you get, the more likely you are to be hired again.
• Nanny Lane: Nanny Lane is great for caregivers seeking long-term nanny jobs. It supports payroll and contracts, making it easier to secure stable, ongoing work.
• Rover: If you love pets, Rover is a leading choice for dog walkers and pet sitters. You set your own schedule and rates, and the platform provides insurance and 24/7 support.
• Medflyt: Medflyt is designed for home healthcare professionals. It offers digital tools for onboarding, scheduling, and compliance, making it easier for caregivers to find and manage jobs in home health.
• Aaniie: Aaniie (formerly Smartcare) is a workforce management platform for caregivers. It helps you find jobs, track hours, and manage certifications in one place.
• AAUXI: AAUXI connects freelance nurses, therapists, and home health aides with clients in their community. It’s a good option if you want flexible, local assignments and prompt payment.

Final Thoughts on Care.com: Is It Legit and Worth Using?

Care.com is a well-known and legitimate platform that connects families with caregivers across childcare, eldercare, pet care, and more. It offers convenience, a wide selection of caregivers, and useful safety features. However, like any service, it has its pros and cons, including membership fees and mixed user reviews. By understanding Care.com’s pricing, safety measures, and potential scams, you can make an informed choice that fits your needs. If you want more options, several trusted Care.com alternatives exist for both families and caregivers. Whether you choose Care.com or another platform, always prioritize safety, verify backgrounds, and trust your instincts to find the best care solution for your family or career.