Insurance for California home care organizations
California won't issue a home care organization (HCO) license without proof of insurance. We assemble the full package the Department of Social Services asks for, and keep it current at every renewal.
- GL and PL minimum
- $1M / $3M
- Per occurrence / aggregate, Health and Safety Code 1796.37.
- Dishonesty bond
- $10,000
- Minimum, including third-party coverage.
- Class 8827 rate
- $2.794
- Per $100 of payroll, advisory, Sept 1, 2026.
What the HCO license requires
- Proof of general and professional liability of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate
- Proof of a valid workers' compensation policy covering affiliated home care aides (policy number, dates and carrier)
- Proof of an employee dishonesty bond, including third-party coverage, of at least $10,000
Workers' comp for California caregivers
California classifies in-home personal care under 8827(1) and nursing care in private residences under 8827(2). Both carry an approved advisory rate of $2.794 per $100 of payroll for policies starting on or after September 1, 2026. Office staff who never visit clients are usually 8810 at $0.214. Home health agencies providing skilled care are licensed by the California Department of Public Health but need the same core coverage.
Coverage we add for California agencies
- Hired and non-owned auto for caregivers driving to clients
- Abuse and molestation coverage
- Employment practices liability for wage, discrimination and harassment claims
- Cyber coverage for client health records
Frequently asked questions
What insurance does a California home care organization need?
General and professional liability of at least $1M per occurrence / $3M aggregate, workers' compensation covering home care aides, and an employee dishonesty bond of at least $10,000 with third-party coverage.
What class code do California home care aides use?
8827(1) for home care services and 8827(2) for nursing care in private residences, both $2.794 per $100 of payroll (advisory, Sept 1, 2026).
Can I get the certificates I need for my HCO application?
Yes. Once coverage is bound we provide the liability certificate, workers' comp policy details and bond the Home Care Services Bureau asks for.
Sources: California Health and Safety Code section 1796.37; WCIRB classifications 8827(1) and 8827(2); WCIRB September 1, 2026 rates.
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