Home Instead
Home Instead offers home care services to older adults and those in need of assistance, providing companionship and specialized care. Known for its senior care solutions, Home Instead operates in the home health and eldercare services industry.
About Home Instead
Home Instead is a network of franchise businesses specializing in non-medical in-home care and support for older people. Founded in 1994, with headquarters in Omaha, it is the largest senior care franchise in the world, with 1200 independently owned and operated offices across six countries. In August 2021, the company was acquired by Honor Technology, based in San Francisco. The organization has been recognized as one of the key providers in the global home care services market.
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Home Instead franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a Home Instead® franchised business ranges from $92,640 to $350,550. This includes an initial franchise fee of $54,000-$56,250 [p.2].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is $54,000 and is due upon signing the Franchise Agreement [p.19, p.127]. This fee is non-refundable except under specific circumstances not detailed in these excerpts [p.19].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee is a percentage of the franchisees' Gross Sales and is due on the 8th and 23rd days of each month for the previous reporting period. This payment can be made through automatic electronic funds transfer by the Franchisor. Additionally, there are monthly payments to cover taxes, license fees, and other state-imposed charges related to franchise fee and royalty fee payments. The advertising fund is intended to maximize recognition of the Licensed Marks and Franchised Businesses but does not guarantee proportional benefits based on contributions from franchisees in any geographic area [p.41].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The initial term of the franchise agreement is not specified in these excerpts. However, if the transaction was either a transfer between non-affiliates or the purchase of a new location [p.150], you have the right to renew the franchise for an additional five years upon expiration of the initial term, unless you provide written notice not to renew at least 180 days before the agreement expires [p.150]. In all other cases, the franchise can also be renewed automatically for a five-year term under similar conditions [p.151].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
You must provide written notice to the franchisor at least 10 days before initiating discussions with any prospective purchaser if you attempt to sell or transfer all or substantially all of the Franchised Business or an ownership interest in your franchise. You must also immediately submit a copy of any bona fide offer and disclose all material terms, including the identity of the purchaser, proposed purchase price, payment terms, asset allocation, and any contingencies or closing conditions. The franchisor can refuse to permit such transfers for good cause, which includes but is not limited to unspecified factors [p.6(g)].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement on any grounds available by law [p.270], including for the failure of the franchisee to comply with any lawful provision of the franchise agreement and to cure such failure after being given written notice and a reasonable opportunity, which cannot exceed 30 days [p.6]. Additionally, termination may occur if there is a breach of terms and conditions deemed a violation of the Participation Agreement [p.277].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts.
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
Yes, you are granted a protected area as specified in the FDD [p.46]. However, this territory is not guaranteed to remain unchanged upon renewal and may be modified or reduced based on various factors [p.47]. Additionally, you do not have an exclusive territory, meaning there could be competition from other franchisees within your designated area [p.153].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides specialized support, guidance, and resources for new franchisees during the first 10 weeks through regular telephone calls, video conferences, and email. Additionally, after successfully completing the franchise training program, ongoing support and assistance are provided to help establish and develop the Franchised Business [p.36].
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, there were 626 domestic Home Instead Franchised Businesses operating in the U.S. [p.76]. The excerpts do not specify the exact number of franchised outlets that have closed or been terminated; however, it mentions that 4 locations were terminated during calendar year 2025 and some businesses may have closed by then as well [p.64].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor does not make any financial performance representations about a franchisee's future financial performance or the past performance of company-owned or franchised outlets, except for providing actual records of an existing outlet that you are considering buying. However, they may provide historical gross sales data based on reports from operating franchises as of December 31, 2025 [p.64]. This information is included in the disclosure document and does not include certain businesses or locations specified [p.64].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are not specifically restricted to selling any particular items, but you may be required to purchase designated items only from brands and types and models of equipment, signage, and supplies that the franchisor has approved or certain designated suppliers, which may include the franchisor or its affiliates [p.30]. This includes potential restrictions on where to buy supplies [p.4].