FAQs

How long does it take to match with a Care Professional?

The time it takes to match with a Care Professional varies from a few days to a few weeks depending on the family’s requirements and desired arrival date. Apex Social Group has a constant supply of available candidates ready to interview and match.

How soon can a European Care Professional arrive in the U.S.?

After a family has matched with a Care Professional, the Care Professional can typically arrive at the family’s home in as little as five weeks. During that time, the candidate will be working on securing their J-1 visa, completing Apex Social Group’s training program, and making preparations to come to the U.S.

What is the difference between a Care Professional, a Career Nanny and a Traditional Au Pair?

Most Care Professionals are newly degreed professionals who live in the US or come to the U.S. on a J-1 visa, live with a family and work up to 45 hours a week providing child care. They are motivated to apply their skills, education and experience in a family setting in exchange for weekly pay and the opportunity to live with a family for up to two years. A Career Nanny is a private childcare provider who works for a family on a live-in or live-out basis. A Traditional Au Pair is typically a high school graduate with babysitting experience who lives with a family to provide help with the children during a gap year between high school and college.

Does Apex Social Group have male Care Professionals?

Yes. Male Care Professionals are an excellent option for some families. Families who match with a male Care Professional often have boys and are looking for a role model or ‘big brother’ to join the family. Families who have children with special needs can also benefit from a male Care Professional who is able to manage the physical requirements of certain care situations.

How long can a European Care Professional stay in the United States?

Care Professionals initially come to the U.S. on a 12-month J-1 au pair visa and can extend for an additional 6, 9, or 12-months. This allows families to benefit from up to two years of live-in childcare from the same Care Professional.

Do I need to pay taxes for my Care Professional?

Care Professionals are employees of the host family and receive a weekly stipend paid by the family. Because the stipend is paid for domestic service in a private home, the stipend is not subject to mandatory U.S. income tax withholding. Visit our tax page for host families here.

Do I need to have Workers' Compensation Insurance for my Care Professional?

Yes, we as an agency require that you protect your Care Professional by providing Workers’ Compensation Insurance. Your homeowners insurance agent can usually provide you with information on how to proceed.

Can a Care Professional drive our car?

Yes, if the Care Professional is required or permitted to drive your car, you will need to add them as a driver to your car insurance policy. The Host Family Service Agreement provides additional details about insurance requirements.

What training do Care Professionals go through?

With Apex Social Group, Care Professionals receive comprehensive preparation and training that focuses on connecting their career goals and passion for children. Our Care Professionals receive personalized coaching and world-class training that prepares them to model Apex Social’s Standards of Excellence, which in turn also equips them in their careers.. .. Apex Social provides personal and professional enrichment that engages them long-term to provide continuity of care for families.

What is the educational component of the program?

Families agree to provide Care Professionals with up to $500 annually for continuing education. As part of their visa requirement, European Care Professionals are required to complete at least six semester hours of credit at an accredited post-secondary institution.

Can Care Professionals drive?

Yes. Almost all Apex Care Professionals have a valid driver’s license, which is one of the top benefits of the Care Professional program. They are generally licensed to drive in their home country or state. European Care Professionals arrive in the U.S. with an international driver’s permit. Families will need to provide the appropriate coverage under their auto insurance and be prepared to help the Care Professional adjust to driving in the U.S. and in their local area. Families are also encouraged to check with their auto insurance provider and local DMV for any state-specific requirements that may exist.

What type of local support does Apex Social Group provide?

Every placement has a local coordinator who lives within one hour of the family and who conducts monthly Care Professional meet-ups. An Apex Social representative also meets with the family to conduct an in-home interview, provide an orientation when the Care Professional arrives, and offer helpful advice and information through a monthly check-in. Our Team brings vast knowledge about how to be successful with live-in childcare from our many years of supporting these placements.

What if there is an emergency?

Apex Social Group maintains a 24/7 support line in the event of an accident or other situation that affects the health, safety, or welfare of a Care Professional. Simply call 1-844-787-6566 and follow the instructions to be connected with an Apex Social Group staff member who can offer assistance.

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