Platform Fee and Pricing Explained

CarerNest operates on a transparent fee structure with no hidden costs. Here's everything you need to know about our platform fee and how our pricing works.

How Our Pricing Works

CarerNest uses a simple, transparent pricing model:

• Carer's Rate: Set by individual carers based on their experience and services
• Platform Fee: 15% added to the carer's rate
• Total Cost: Carer's rate + platform fee = what you pay

What the Platform Fee Covers

Our 15% platform fee provides significant value and covers:

Safety & Security

• Background Checks: Enhanced DBS checks for all carers
• Identity Verification: Comprehensive identity and document verification
• Insurance Coverage: £6 million public liability insurance
• Ongoing Monitoring: Continuous safety monitoring and annual renewals

Payment Protection

• Secure Payments: Bank-level encryption and fraud protection
• Payment Processing: Handling all transactions and invoicing
• Dispute Resolution: Mediation for payment disputes
• Refund Protection: Guaranteed refunds for unsatisfactory service

Platform & Technology

• Matching Algorithm: Smart matching based on needs and preferences
• Mobile App: Full-featured iOS and Android applications
• Booking System: Easy scheduling and calendar management
• Communication Tools: Secure messaging and video calls

Support Services

• 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock customer service
• Emergency Assistance: Urgent care coordination
• Care Coordination: Help finding replacement carers
• Quality Assurance: Monitoring and improving service quality

Comparing Our Fees

Our 15% platform fee is competitive within the care industry:

• Traditional Agencies: Typically charge 25-40% markup
• Other Platforms: Often charge 20-25% plus additional fees
• CarerNest: Just 15% with comprehensive services included

How Carers Set Their Rates

Carers have complete freedom to set their own hourly rates based on:

• Experience Level: Years of care experience
• Qualifications: Formal training and certifications
• Specializations: Dementia care, medical support, etc.
• Location: Local market rates and cost of living
• Service Type: Personal care vs. companionship
• Timing: Evenings, weekends, and holidays may cost more

Typical Rate Ranges

• Companionship Care: £15-22/hour
• Personal Care: £18-25/hour
• Specialized Care: £22-30/hour
• Live-in Care: £120-180/day
• Overnight Care: £80-120/night

Payment Process

Here's how payments work on CarerNest:

1. Booking Confirmation: Payment method is authorized when booking
2. Service Completion: Payment is processed after care is provided
3. Automatic Invoicing: You receive detailed invoices via email
4. Carer Payment: Carers are paid within 24 hours of service completion

Discounts & Special Pricing

Regular Care Discounts

Save money with regular care arrangements:

• Weekly Care: 5% discount on platform fee
• Daily Care: 10% discount on platform fee
• Live-in Care: 15% discount on platform fee

First-Time User Offers

• New User Discount: 50% off platform fee for first booking
• Referral Credits: £25 credit for each successful referral
• Seasonal Promotions: Special offers throughout the year

VAT and Tax Information

Important tax information:

• VAT Exempt: Care services are VAT exempt in the UK
• Platform Fee VAT: 20% VAT applies to our platform fee only
• Invoicing: Clear breakdown of all charges and VAT
• Tax Relief: Some care costs may be tax deductible

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Our fair cancellation policy:

• 24+ Hours Notice: Full refund, no charges
• 2-24 Hours Notice: 50% of booking fee charged
• Less than 2 Hours: Full booking fee charged
• Emergency Cancellations: Reviewed case-by-case