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Hand tools hanging neatly on a workshop wall
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Plain checks before you hire help around the house

By Ted Langford Last checked Nov 9, 2026

Hiring someone to clean, mow, fix a gutter or run errands should be simple. Most of the time it is. A few easy questions up front can save you a lot of trouble later.

The Home Helper is about everyday household help and the money and rights questions that come with it. We don't rank workers, and we don't send anyone to your door.

What we help with

  • Asking the right questions. Price, scope, who shows up and how payment works.
  • Paperwork that protects you. When a written agreement matters, and how a federal rule lets you cancel some purchases made in your home.
  • Taxes for regular helpers. When paying a housekeeper or gardener can make you their employer in the eyes of the IRS.

Pick a place to start

Before You Hire

Five short checks with links to the IRS and the federal rule book, plus a true-or-false round. Go to Before You Hire

The Help Sorter

Tell us the kind of chore. We'll give you a short list of questions to ask before anyone starts. Use the Help Sorter

Fine print, kept short

The Home Helper shares general consumer information. It is not legal or tax advice. State and local rules vary, so check yours before you sign.

The company behind The Home Helper is The Home Helper.