Choosing the right person to enter your home during your most vulnerable time is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Here's everything you need to check before hiring.

🔍 Part 1: Agency Credentials & Legitimacy

Essential Checks

• [ ] Licensed & Insured
• Ask for proof of liability insurance (minimum $1M recommended)
• Verify they're registered with state labor board (if applicable)
• Check if they have worker's comp insurance (protects you if doula gets injured on the job)
• Ask for certificate of insurance to be sent directly to you
• [ ] Background Check Transparency
• ✅ Legitimate agencies do comprehensive background checks:
  • FBI fingerprinting
  • State criminal records check
  • Sex offender registry check
  • Abuse & neglect registry check
• Ask specifically: "What is your background check process?" (Good agencies have this documented)
• ❌ Red flags: "We trust our people" or "We just do reference checks"
• Request that they provide you with a copy of the background check report (or at least confirmation it passed)
• [ ] Reference Verification
• Ask for at least 3-5 recent references from families (not just doulas giving references to each other)
• Call references yourself (don't just read written testimonials)
• Ask references: "Would you hire this person again?" and "What was most challenging?"
• Be wary if they're vague or defensive about references
• [ ] Certifications & Training