Cornell Study Found Home Care Worker Pay Issues
New research highlights wage and expense burdens for home care workers at private-equity-backed agencies in New York.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Employment
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Cornell University researchers found that home care workers at several private-equity-owned agencies in New York reported missing pay and out-of-pocket costs. The study, which covered the period from April 2025 through March 2026, details financial challenges faced by staff members.
Why it matters
These findings shed light on the economic stability of home care staff, who manage essential support services while often navigating volatile payroll practices. This report underscores the tension between private equity administrative models and the financial security of those providing front-line care.
Workers reported hourly earnings between $17.50 and $22, while some staff indicated they used personal funds for client-related transportation. These reports emerge as private-equity-backed agencies accounted for 7.6% of Medicaid home care revenue in 2022.
The players
Cornell University
An academic institution that researches labor conditions and economic trends impacting workers.
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
A philanthropic organization that supports health and social research, including projects on labor conditions.
The details
The report indicates that some home care workers experienced payroll discrepancies and did not receive promised financial supplements. Additionally, researchers documented instances where employees utilized personal funds to cover necessary transportation costs for their clients. The study draws on interviews with 25 workers and 15 industry representatives to illustrate how administrative shifts in the private equity sector directly impact the day-to-day budgets of care staff.
Timeline
2022: Private-equity-backed agencies received 7.6% of Medicaid home care revenue.
2025: Private equity's administrative role expanded in New York state.
April 2025-March 2026: Researchers conducted interviews regarding wages and working conditions.
October 6, 2026: Cornell University released the Worker Institute report.
Money Landscape
This research highlights the evolving role of private equity within the New York Medicaid home care program. The findings reflect broader concerns regarding how administrative and ownership changes can influence the financial stability of the essential workforce.
Home care workers who notice discrepancies in their pay or missing promised supplements should consult their pay stubs and employment agreements immediately. For those facing out-of-pocket costs, consider speaking with a qualified financial or tax professional about documenting work-related expenses.
The takeaway
Maintaining clear documentation of all hours worked and expenses incurred is essential for workers in roles where payroll errors have been identified. Reviewing your compensation agreement against your actual pay stubs can help you identify and address missing funds promptly.
Further reading
For more on labor trends and wage reports, visit Employment.
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