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Care.com Terms of Service

Last updated: January 2026 | Reviewed: February 2026

Largest care marketplace with improved background check processes after past controversies. Still operates as a pure marketplace with limited vetting and significant liability limitations.

45
Grade C
Bottom Line: Care.com is primarily a marketplace that connects families with caregivers. They are not the employer of caregivers and make this clear in their terms. While they offer background checks, they disclaim responsibility for their accuracy. Families using Care.com should conduct their own thorough vetting and not rely solely on the platform's screening.

Category Scores

Background Check Transparency 48/100
Caregiver Liability 42/100
Abuse Reporting Process 52/100
Dispute Resolution 40/100
Platform Accountability 45/100

Key Findings

⚠ Marketplace Model - Not an Employer
Care.com explicitly states they are a marketplace, not an employer. This means they disclaim responsibility for caregiver conduct, qualifications, and performance.
"Care.com is a platform that facilitates connections between families and care providers. We are not an employer, employment agency, or healthcare provider. We do not employ, recommend, or endorse any care provider."
⚠ Background Check Limitations
While Care.com offers background checks, they disclaim responsibility for completeness and accuracy. Background checks only show reported information and may miss crimes not in databases.
"Background checks are not foolproof. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any background check. Results reflect only information available in the databases searched."
⚠ Limited Liability for Caregiver Conduct
Care.com limits liability for any harm caused by caregivers found through their platform. The terms make clear that families assume responsibility for vetting and supervising caregivers.
"We are not liable for any damages arising from your interactions with care providers, including personal injury, property damage, or other losses."
⚠ Mandatory Arbitration
Disputes must be resolved through binding arbitration rather than court. Class action waivers prevent families from joining together for claims against the platform.

Recommendation

For Families: Care.com can be a useful starting point for finding caregivers, but do not rely solely on their screening. Conduct your own background checks, verify references independently, and consider trial periods before leaving vulnerable family members alone with a new caregiver.

For Caregivers: Understand that Care.com provides no employment protections. You are an independent contractor and must handle your own taxes, insurance, and liability coverage.